By Ahmad Adil
NEW DELHI (AA) - Many people are feared dead after a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela, a Hindu festival being touted as the world's largest religious congregation, which kicked off this month in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.
Officials said the incident took place on Mauni Amavasya -- the most significant day of the festival. Local authorities had expected a record 100 million attendees on Wednesday.
The India Today news channel said around 10 people were feared dead and dozens injured.
Local media reported that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is continuously monitoring the situation and has spoken to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The Maha Kumbh, which is deeply embedded in Hindu mythology, takes place every 12 years on the riverbanks in the city of Prayagraj. This year, it is being held from Jan. 13 to Feb. 26.
The Indian government said earlier this month that the event promises to be the world’s largest gathering, with over 400 million devotees expected to attend.
Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is considered particularly holy to Hindus, as it is home to Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers.