Boatman Rowing Marigolds Past Burning Ghats

Soft morning light falls through ground fog pooling in the low corners of a temple courtyard. A wooden boat floats in the center third, carrying a heavy cargo of bright orange marigolds. The boatman stands with a long oar, his posture steady as he navigates the shallow water. Behind him, stone steps rise toward the burning ghats, their surfaces damp and dark where rain has recently fallen. The sky holds a pale, washed-out hue, suggesting the turn of seasons. Wet stone reflects the muted colors of the flowers, while the fog rests on the water's edge, softening the transition between the boat and the ancient steps.