Tamil Nadu: One Killed, 18 Hurt In Helium Cylinder Blast At Kallakurichi Festival

Tamil Nadu: The Thenpennai River Festival organized in Manalurpettai area of ​​Kallakurichi district of Tamil Nadu on Monday turned into a tragic accident when a helium cylinder being used to fill balloons suddenly burst. In this accident, one person died on the spot, while 18 other people were injured. The excitement of the festival had turned into shouting and chaos within a moment.

How did the accident happen?

According to eyewitnesses, a large number of people were present on the riverbank, and children were buying balloons. Some people were filling gas in balloons from a cylinder when there was a loud explosion. The sound was so loud that people standing nearby got scared and many fell on the ground. Some of the injured suffered serious injuries on their hands, legs and face.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu | One dead and at least 18 injured after a helium cylinder exploded during the Thenpennai River Festival in Manalurpettai in the Kallakurichi district: District Collector of Tiruvannamalai, K. Tharpagaraj

(Visuals from the spot) pic.twitter.com/fVufIa2cSc

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2026

How is the condition of the injured being reported?

Immediately after the incident, with the help of police and local people, all the injured were admitted to nearby hospitals. According to doctors, the condition of some people still remains critical, while the rest are undergoing treatment. The district administration has assured that there will be no shortage of treatment.

What was the reaction of the leaders?

AIADMK general secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami expressed deep sorrow over this accident. He posted on social media and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He also demanded from the state government that compensation should be given to the victim's family and the injured as soon as possible.

Why is this event considered important?

This event, held on the banks of the Thenpennai River, is associated with the Pongal festival. Pongal and Mattu Pongal are followed by Kanum Pongal and then Athruthiru festival is celebrated on the fifth day. During this time, processions take out temples from districts like Cuddalore, Villupuram and Kallakurichi, and thousands of people reach here with their families.

What steps did the administration take on the spot?

As soon as information about the incident was received, District Superintendent of Police Arvind reached the spot with his team. District Collector Prashant also inspected the spot and reviewed the arrangements for the treatment of the injured.

What can come out in the investigation?

Police have registered the case, and the forensic team is investigating the reason for the cylinder explosion. Initially, there is a suspicion of technical fault or negligence in safety rules. The real cause of the accident will become clear only after the investigation is completed.