Meet this French Baba who's a star attraction in Prayagraj
What's the story
Kumbh Mela, one of the biggest gatherings in the world, sees pilgrims from across the world come and cleanse all their sins in UP's Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad).
One such man is Daniel, a French native, who has been turning heads in Prayagraj for his sadhu (Indian sage)-like attire.
Daniel, who is a converted Hindu, is now called Bhagwan Giri by his fellow sages.
Details
Daniel came to India 30 years backs, follows Devgiri Baba
Daniel Bhagwan Giri came to India 30 years back for search of "peace and tranquility" and was mesmerized by the country so much that he made it his permanent home, and gave up his flourishing business back home.
He is associated with the Anand Akhara (a monastic center) and speaks in broken Hindi.
Daniel is a follower of Devgiri Baba Maharaj.
His life
I love sanatan dharma, it's very peaceful: Daniel
Daniel wears saffron-clothes and applies turmeric paste on his forehead.
He lives with his fellows, whom he calls gurubhai and lives the sadhu way of life (monk-like life).
"I love sanatan dharma. It's very peaceful. We believe in one God, there's only one spirit that has many names," he told media.
"Prem hai toh sab anand hai (if there's love, there's joy)," he added.
Routine
Daniel's everyday routine includes yoga, meditation and prayer
Daniel's fellow at Anand Akhara, Laxman Giri said, the former's daily routine involves yoga, dhyan (meditation) and bhajan (prayer).
The French Baba will be attending Kumbh Mela for the entire duration of March.
The Kumbh Mela is held alternately between Prayag, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain every three years.
It has been inscribed on the UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.