Diwali Oil Lamps on Wet Steps by Kolkata Waterfront

Small clay diyas glow with steady orange flames along the damp stone steps leading to the Hooghly River. Rain has left the surface slick, reflecting the flickering light in distorted, shimmering patches. The night is deep and starless, with only the faint ground glow from distant street lamps illuminating the wet masonry. Water droplets rest on the rough edges of the earthen lamps, and steam rises faintly from the warm oil. The arrangement follows the curve of the staircase, creating a rhythmic line of fire against the dark water. One reflection of a flame breaks on the rippling surface of the river below.