20 injured in firecracker explosion during temple festival in Killai

As many as 20 persons were injured after a stockpile of firecrackers exploded during a temple festival at Killai near Chidambaram on Monday (June 29, 2026) night. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m

Police said people had gathered at Killai Kuchipalayam to witness rituals at the local Mariamman temple. A group of devotees were lighting lamps near the temple when a spark fell on a pile of firecrackers, leading to an explosion. Sparks from the fireworks fell on the devotees and caused burns, injuring Gomathy, Sumathy, Rajakumari, Chellammal, Uma, Ramya, Jeevitha, Sandhya and 12 others.

The injured were admitted to Chidambaram General Hospital and Cuddalore Government Medical College and Hospital.

Further investigations are underway.

Published – 30 June 2026 14:30 IST