Archive · 23 Aug 2025
934 Injured in Stone-Pelting Festival in Madhya Pradesh
Imagine a yearly event in India where people throw stones at each other.
This is the Gotmar Mela, between the villages of Pandhurna and Sawargaon.
The goal is to get a flag in the middle of the river.
This year, many people were hurt.
Medical teams and police were present.
The event has been happening for centuries, though the local government has requested that the event be observed in a safer manner.
The Gotmar Mela, a stone-pelting festival, took place in Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh.
Villagers from Pandhurna and Sawargaon threw stones at each other during the event.
The annual event involves a flag being hoisted on a tree in the river.
934 people were injured during the stone-pelting event this year.
Police and medical staff were present to provide assistance.
- Who
- Villagers from Pandhurna and Sawargaon.
- What
- The Gotmar Mela, a stone-pelting festival.
- When
- Annually.
- Where
- Pandhurna district, Madhya Pradesh, India.
- Why
- To reenact a local legend and uphold tradition.
Tradition Supporters
Safety Advocates
Safety vs Tradition
Tradition Supporters
Uphold tradition and continue the Gotmar Mela
Safety Advocates
Prioritize safety and reduce injuries.
- Location
- Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh
- Event Type
- Stone-pelting festival
- Injuries Reported
- 934
- Tradition Origin
- 4 centuries old
- Police Presence
- 600 officers
- Medical Support
- 58 doctors, 200 medical staff
- Fatalities (1955-2023)
- 13
