300 Injured in Traditional Gotmar Fair in Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh
Approximately 300 people were injured during the annual Gotmar fair in Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh, according to Additional Superintendent of Police Neeraj Soni. Among the injured, nine sustained severe injuries, with two referred to Nagpur for further treatment, while seven were receiving treatment in Pandhurna.
About the Gotmar Fair
The Gotmar fair has been held for hundreds of years on the banks of the Jaam river, traditionally on the day following Bhadrapada Amavasya. During the fair, people from Sawargaon village and Pandhurna gather on opposite sides of the river. A tree with a flag is placed in the middle, and participants from both sides attempt to retrieve the flag while pelting stones at each other. The first to secure the flag is declared the winner.
History of the Fair
About 300 years ago, a boy from Pandhurna fell in love with a girl from Sawargaon. As they tried to elope, villagers from Sawargaon began throwing stones to stop them, and the residents of Pandhurna retaliated. The couple died during the stone-pelting, and since then, the Gotmar fair has been held annually as a form of penance.
Safety Measures
Pandhurna Superintendent of Police Sundar Singh Kanesh stated that this year’s fair was organized with the cooperation of the district administration, police, and local residents. Enhanced medical facilities were provided, with the number of ambulances increased from 8 to 16, and proper access routes established. Four medical camps were set up for primary treatment, and a total of 600 police personnel were deployed for security.
Doubts Revealed
Gotmar Fair -: Gotmar Fair is a traditional event where people from two villages throw stones at each other. It happens every year in Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh.
Pandhurna -: Pandhurna is a place in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It recently became a district.
Madhya Pradesh -: Madhya Pradesh is a large state in central India. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
stone-pelting -: Stone-pelting means throwing stones at someone. In the Gotmar Fair, people from two villages throw stones at each other as part of the tradition.
severe injuries -: Severe injuries are very serious injuries that can cause a lot of pain and may need special medical treatment.
medical facilities -: Medical facilities are places like hospitals and clinics where people go to get treated when they are sick or injured.
security measures -: Security measures are actions taken to keep people safe. This can include having police officers around or setting up barriers.
tragic love story -: A tragic love story is a sad story about two people who love each other but face difficult problems. The Gotmar Fair started because of such a story.