Street living in Varanasi

There were many people sleeping on the streets leading to and around the ghats in Varanasi.  

Early in the morning, it was still quite cold, and some were warming themselves with small fires.  

Those who can afford it can rent roadside cubicles, which provide some protection against the elements. 

Many people were squatting and lining up on the street.  Were they waiting for something?

Soon it became clear.  A big pot of something was cooking at the head of the queue.  Charity is important to Hinduism.  They were waiting for free food. 

Evidently the streets of Varanasi has its own ecosystem.