Kallakurichi: One person died and at least 18 others were injured on Monday after a helium gas cylinder exploded during the Thenpennai River Festival in Manalurpettai, officials told news agency ANI.
The blast occurred when a helium cylinder being used to fill balloons burst at the festival venue, triggering panic among attendees.
AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami expressed grief over the incident. In a post on X, he said he was deeply saddened by the death and injuries caused by the explosion and extended his condolences to the bereaved family. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and urged the Tamil Nadu government to provide immediate and appropriate compensation to both the victim’s family and the injured.
The festival, known in Tamil as “Aatru Thiruvizha,” is traditionally held in several districts including Villupuram, Cuddalore and Kallakurichi, often on the fifth day of the Tamil month of Thai (around Thai Poosam). Celebrated to mark the conclusion of the Pongal harvest festivities, the event typically attracts large crowds.
