Sixteen Drown in Bihar During Dussehra Rituals

At least 16 people drowned in Bihar on October 11 while collecting holy water for Dussehra festival rituals. The deaths occurred as victims entered deep water in rivers currently swollen due to recent flooding. Fatalities were reported across several districts, with Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Sitamarhi recording the highest numbers, while others occurred in Samastipur, Sheohar, Bhojpur, Saran, Begusarai, Nawada, and Rohtas.

Additionally, two children died from electrocution in West Champaran district while traveling to collect water. Officials warned that the death toll may rise as the 10-day festival continues through October 20. The state government has been hosting various cultural programs and musical events to mark the celebrations.

Editor's note: Covers all key figures and locations accurately, including the specific district breakdown and the secondary electrocution incident.