Madhya Pradesh's Hingot ritual leaves 20 injured in post-Diwali clashes

The Hingot War, a long-standing post-Diwali tradition in Gautampura, Indore, resulted in multiple injuries on Sunday as members of the Turra and Kalangi groups engaged in escalating physical confrontations. The ritual, which sees participants hurl burning, gunpowder-filled fruit shells at one another, turned violent when the traditional competition intensified beyond its customary bounds.

Local authorities confirmed that at least 20 individuals required medical attention following the altercation. The injuries ranged from burns sustained from the explosive projectiles to wounds inflicted during direct physical clashes between the rival factions.

The Hingot War has been practiced in the region for generations, with both groups maintaining deep historical ties to the tradition. However, the ritual has increasingly drawn scrutiny from local administrators and safety officials concerned about the potential for serious injury during celebrations that regularly attract large crowds.

Police and municipal officials have been stationed in the area to monitor future iterations of the event. Authorities have indicated they may consider implementing new safety protocols to prevent similar incidents during next year's post-Diwali festivities.