11 People Drown During Indian Festival

In the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, a boat transporting a group of devotees capsized during a religious ceremony, resulting in the drowning of more than 11 individuals, with 3 others reported missing, according to РИА Новости.

The incident occurred in Bhopal, considered the heart of the state, during the celebrations of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. This is one of the most significant festivities for Indians, dedicated to the deity Ganesh, who is depicted with a human body and an elephant head.

During the celebrations, pilgrims place fruits, sweets, milk, and other offerings near statues of the god. In some regions of the country, people create clay idols, only to immerse them in the river afterward. Additionally, devotees also cast other items related to the worship of Lord Ganesh into the water.

It was during this ritual that the boat capsized, leading to the tragic loss of life for over 11 people.