Several children tragically drown during Hindu festival in India

A tragic incident occurred in India during the observance of a Hindu religious festival, where at least 46 people, mostly children, drowned while bathing in rivers and ponds swollen by recent floods. The incident took place in the state of Bihar across 15 districts, with 37 children and seven women losing their lives. This rare mass drowning took place during the annual festival of Jivitputrika Vrat, where devotees observe a fast for 24 hours and offer prayers for the well-being of their children. The rivers and ponds in the state had been swollen due to heavy rains, leading to these tragic incidents. The state government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased, providing 400,000 rupees ($4,784) to each family. India has previously seen deadly stampedes during religious events, but incidents of mass drowning during festivals are uncommon. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the dangers that can arise from flooding and the need for caution and vigilance, especially during religious observances that involve water activities.

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