Pimpri Chinchwad: A 20-year-old man sustained severe facial burns while attempting a fire-breathing stunt during a Ram Navami procession on Sunday evening in Talegaon Dabhade, near Pune. The incident occurred as part of a traditional display featuring mallakhamb—a form of aerial yoga performed on a vertical pole—when the young man attempted the dangerous stunt in front of a gathered crowd.
A viral video circulating on social media captured the moment the stunt went awry, resulting in flames engulfing the performer’s face. The man was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment, though the exact details of his injuries and his condition have not been officially released.
Local police have called on event organizers and performers to implement stricter safety protocols during such public events, especially those involving high-risk activities. The incident has raised concerns among local residents and sparked discussions about the need for stronger enforcement of safety measures during cultural and religious gatherings.