Kolkata, India, September 18, 2008--A craftsman's hand rests on earthen lamps prepared for use in the Hindu festival of Durga Puga.

The festival celebrates the mother goddess Durga, who banished evil from the Earth. Today, Bengalis all over the world celebrate the festival, which is also a nod to female power.

During the autumn festivities, which last for five days, lamps brighten the city of Kolkata and artisans' works are on full display.

--John Roach