43, Including 37 Children Drown During ‘Jivitputrika’ Festival in Bihar

Patna: A total of 43 people, including 37 children, drowned, and three others remain missing after taking holy dips during the ‘Jivitputrika’ festival in Bihar, according to the state government.

The tragic incidents occurred on Wednesday across 15 districts as women observed the festival, fasting and taking holy dips for their children’s well-being.

The Disaster Management Department (DMD) confirmed that 43 bodies have been recovered so far, with search operations continuing. The districts affected include East and West Champaran, Nalanda, Aurangabad, Kaimur, Buxar and Patna, among others.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh for the families of the deceased, with eight families having already received the compensation.