Indore: More than 35 people, including several minors, suffered burn injuries during the annual Hingot War festival held a day after Diwali in Gautampura near Indore, officials said on Wednesday.
According to a senior district official, most of the injured sustained minor burns and were given first aid by police and medical teams deployed at the site.
The Hingot War, a fiery tradition fought between the Turra team of Gautampura and the Kalangi team of Runji, began as both sides took positions about 200 feet apart near the Devnarayan Temple.
Dressed in traditional attire and carrying shields and pouches of Hingots, participants hurled flaming projectiles made from the explosive-filled fruit towards their rivals.
Despite extensive safety measures, including the deployment of fire brigades, ambulances and police personnel, several participants were injured during the event. Authorities said the contest, which usually continues into the evening, was stopped half an hour earlier this year due to mounting safety concerns.
Tracing its roots to the Mughal era, the Hingot War is believed to have originated when Maratha soldiers used dried Hingot fruits filled with gunpowder as makeshift grenades during guerrilla warfare.
Over time, the weapon evolved into a ritual symbol, turning a deadly battlefield tactic into a cultural celebration of courage and local pride. Young men continue to take part in the battle as an expression of bravery, despite the inherent risks.
The Hingot is a wild fruit with a tough outer shell. Once dried, its pulp is removed and the hollow fruit is packed with gunpowder before being sealed with yellow clay.
According to local folklore, the practice reflects the martial heritage of the Gurjar warriors, who have long inhabited the Gautampura region and are known for their valour and horsemanship.