Kendrapara: At least ten people, including four children, were injured in a firecracker explosion during a temple consecration ceremony at Gulnagar village in Kendrapara district on Thursday.
According to reports, a kalash (sacred pot) procession was underway as part of the temple inauguration rituals. More than a hundred women and children from nearby areas had gathered to participate in the religious event, creating a festive atmosphere in the village.
The incident occurred when firecrackers being used during the procession suddenly exploded, triggering panic among the participants. The celebration site quickly turned chaotic as the blast injured several people standing nearby.
Local residents immediately rushed to the aid of the injured and shifted them to the District Headquarters Hospital in Kendrapara for treatment. Hospital sources confirmed that ten persons were admitted, including four minors. The condition of the injured is being monitored by doctors.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances under which the firecrackers exploded and whether safety protocols were followed during the procession.
Further details are awaited.
