Travel nominee

Sadhus embody spiritual renunciation amid the city's vibrant chaos. Draped in saffron robes, they meditate and perform rituals by the Ganges, navigating narrow alleys, bustling ghats, and cremation grounds. In this sacred city, where life and death intertwine, their presence reflects a timeless quest for transcendence.
Varanasi, one of Hinduism's holiest cities, holds unparalleled significance as a gateway to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The Ganges, considered a lifeline of spirituality, cleanses sins and connects devotees to the divine. Here, ancient traditions and rituals thrive, making Varanasi a living embodiment of faith and eternal devotion.

Self-taught photographer and passionate traveler, Thibault Gerbaldi roams the world to capture visual stories infused with emotion and authenticity.

His work has been recognized in prestigious international competitions, earning first place at the International Travel Photo Awards, second place at the PX3 (Prix de la Photographie de Paris), the Monovision Awards, and the Fine Art Photography Awards. In 2024, he received the Rising Talent Award from Travel Photographer of the Year, the world’s most prestigious travel photography competition.

His images have been published in Leica Fotografie International, All About Photo, LENS Magazine, and various specialized media. Much like Thibault himself, his work travels the world—from Miami to Paris, Venice, Los Angeles, and Rome. In 2024, his growing recognition earned him a spot among AAP’s Emerging Talents to Watch.

Beyond photography, Thibault is committed to supporting humanitarian causes through his work. A board member of The Forgotten International since 2019, he donates a portion of his book and print sales to fund solidarity projects supporting marginalized communities.