There is nothing more full of life than a group of young men galvanized for a mission. There was much laughter and back slapping and widespread enjoyment of their quest to deliver the statue, although I imagine a lot of them were hoarse the next day.

At the water's edge the enthusiasm waned just a bit, as some of the young men had forgotten to roll up their pants legs. Relief came in the form of those already in the river, who helped make sure she reached her destination. It took a bit of pushing to get her going.

Life on the Ghat. As you can see, another statue, also draped in flower garlands, awaits her turn.

The river banks were covered in debris from earlier launchings. When the monsoons arrive in the summer, much of this gets carried downstream. In recent years there has been some effort to improve the contamination of the Ganges but the issue is a delicate one. For many it is so revered and customs regarding its use not only in religious ceremonies but also in daily life so ingrained, making any changes will have to be carefully orchestrated.

The largest Hindu Temple in Calcutta.