Balasore, April 12: A tragic incident occurred during the Chadak Mela in Balasore district on Friday as a woman devotee passed away while participating in the puja rituals.

The deceased, identified as Tulsi Mirdha from Gumuriapal village in the Kharagpur police station area of East Medinipur district in West Bengal, fell ill suddenly while engaged in worship at the fair. Despite immediate attention from health officials present at the event, she tragically succumbed while under medical care.

Another individual, a youth, is currently receiving treatment at a health camp after falling critically ill.

The atmosphere around the Chandaneswar temple in Balasore district was vibrant with activity as lakhs of devotees gathered for the Chadak Mela, a celebration that commenced a month ago. This annual fair, said to have originated around 200 years ago, draws devotees who don saffron-colored attire and observe vegetarianism while worshipping Lord Shiva for the duration of a month. Over the years, the fair has seen a steady increase in the number of participants.

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