Millions in India take ‘holy dip’ a day after deadly stampede at Hindu festival

Millions of devout Hindus thronged the northern Indian city of Prayagraj on Thursday for the Maha Kumbh festival, a day after dozens died in a stampede on the most auspicious day of the six-week event.

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But some devotees remained nervous after the fatal crush.

Krishna Soni, a student from the western state of Rajasthan’s Bikaner city, and his family of eight linked themselves together with string to ensure they would not lose each other in the massive crowd.

“We are walking very carefully and trying to avoid the crowded areas,” he said.

Pilgrims gather to take a holy dip on Wednesday. Photo: AFP
Pilgrims gather to take a holy dip on Wednesday. Photo: AFP

Police said 30 people were killed on Wednesday in a crush at the world’s biggest gathering of humanity and 90 were injured, but sources told Reuters the death toll was nearly 40.

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