Dr Rajendra Prasad, Kumbh Mela, Allahabad, India
Feb. 02, 1953 - Five Hundred Pilgrims killed During The Kumbh Mela In The River Ganges: At least 500 pilgrims were killed and 2000 injured recently where a vast crowd got out of hand and stamped at the Kumbh Mela, a religious festival held at the confluence of the Ganges and Jumna - The ceremony, which is normally held every 12 years was attended by Dr Prasad the President of India and Pandit Nehru the Prime Minister. Police made a charge when the procession was blocked by the crowds - and children, invalids, lepers, etc. who were unable to move fast enough, were trampled to death. Photo shows Dr. Rajendra Prasad receives blessings from Delvaria Baba at the inauguration of the All-India Sanskriti Sammelan at the Kumbh Mela, Allahabad. The President took the ceremonial bath shortly before the disaster occurred
