In India, at least 46 people, mostly children, drowned while bathing in swollen rivers and ponds during a Hindu religious festival in the northern part of the country. The incidents occurred during the observance of the Jivitputrika Vrat festival, where women fast for 24 hours and offer prayers for the well-being of their children. They also bathe in rivers and ponds, sometimes with their children. The drowning incidents took place in the state of Bihar, across 15 districts, following heavy rains that caused floods. This is a rare occurrence during festivals, as India has previously experienced deadly stampedes during religious events. The state government has announced compensation of 400,000 rupees ($4,784) for the families of each deceased person, a total of 46 individuals. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by natural disasters and the importance of safety measures during religious gatherings.
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Multiple children die in drowning incidents during Hindu festival in India
