A sadu, or holy man sits on temple steps in Pashupatinah, Nepal. The sadu are devout followers of Shiva, the Hindu god viewed as both destroyer and creator. Some sadu are constantly covered in sackcloth and ashes.
This man had a wonderful smile and gentle nature and seemed genuine. Locals say some sadu are society drop-outs, rather than religious men. The imitators pose for tourist photos, in exchange for money.
These two holy men have dreadlocks down to their feet and beyond. Click photos to view detail.
The 17th-century Pashupatinah Temple - the oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu - has UNESCO World Heritage protection. The sacred site sits on the banks of the Bagmati River.
Sackcloth and ashes.
This man's long dreadlocks are wound into a giant bun on the side of his head.
This man covered in ash appeared to be a loner, isolated from the other sadu.
Check back soon for more of my images and stories from Nepal.
All images copyright Tara Bradford.
WOW! Tara this are exquisite photos. Their faces are so expressively otherworldly. I love the yellow/orange colour of their garb. But, the one photo that grabs my heart is the man covered in ash....seemingly void of colour. However his colour penetrates through the ashes.
Brilliant work!
Posted by: dana | 30 November 2010 at 06:52
what an extraordinary life you lead. gorgeous images. xo
Posted by: Marilyn | 28 November 2010 at 02:14
Oh Tara, these photos are truly wonderful. I have also fallen in love with a photo on the homepage of your website (black and white, lady in hat, Morocco or somesuch?). I've become all covetous again...
Posted by: Elsie Anderton | 26 November 2010 at 21:09
Absolutely unreal. I am speechless.
You kindness and beauty is palpable Miss Tara.
Love you, V
Posted by: a fanciful twist | 23 November 2010 at 23:26
These photos are just stunning Tara. Are you there on assignment? Possibly working on a book.?...
x..x
Posted by: Stephanie | 23 November 2010 at 20:14
WOW!!!! These photos are amazing, and you look beautiful dear one. Nepal is good for you I think! So lovely to see these images from such an amazing adventure.
Posted by: Swirly | 23 November 2010 at 02:43
Tara, wonderful images from your trip to Nepal!! Eager to hear more...will call you tomorrow!
:)
xoxo
Posted by: gillian | 22 November 2010 at 22:28
Stunning. Photographs of people are so difficult, to really capture their essence.
Posted by: Donna | 22 November 2010 at 20:25
These are absolutely wonderful, Tara! I especially love the sadu with the side bun. What a great face!
Posted by: Dorian Fletcher | 22 November 2010 at 17:58
What great photos. I can't wait to hear more about your adventure.
Posted by: meredith | 22 November 2010 at 17:03
What a treat to see your beautiful smiling face at the end of those incredible photographs.
Posted by: Nancy Sotham | 22 November 2010 at 16:34
thank you so very much for sharing these images.......moving.Love the shared smiles in the last photo....lovely.
Missy from the bayou
Posted by: missy | 22 November 2010 at 08:35
Absolutely beautiful Tara!
Posted by: Alexandra | 22 November 2010 at 07:38
Oh I love all the images, but especially seeing you in the last picture. What a lovely picture and you look so peaceful. A friend of mine was in Nepal the same time you were there. I hope your trip was just amazing.
Posted by: Marilyn Miller | 22 November 2010 at 02:33
Amazing is the word. These are amazing photographs. Also phenominal, incredible, and breathtaking. You've really outdone yourself.
Posted by: Natalie | 22 November 2010 at 00:07
Amazing photographs. Well, amazing art is what they are. Do you sell your photos?
Posted by: Limner | 21 November 2010 at 19:17
What an amazing adventure! Do you know why he was separated? He also doesn't have the long dreads... and his eyes are jaundice. These are wonderful images!
Posted by: Stephanie | 21 November 2010 at 17:51