国际英语新闻:26 drowned during Hindu festival in India's Bihar

NEW DELHI, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- At least 26 people were killed after drowning in different parts of India's eastern state of Bihar during celebrations of the Hindu festival of Chhath Pooja, officials said Monday.

"Six causalities were reported from Patna district followed by five in Muzaffarpur and three each drowned in Khagaria and Purnea," an official posted in Patna city, the capital of Bihar said.

"Nine people were swept away in current of river in eight districts including Saharsa, Buxar Katihar and Kishanganj districts of the state."

Chhath is an important ancient Hindu-Vedic festival celebrated many Indian states and neighboring Nepal. The celebrations of the festival begin four days after Diwali (Hindu festival of lights) and last for four days.

Devotees worship the Sun god, observe fast and take holy baths, besides offering prayers to the rising and setting sun on these days.

Reports said deaths took place while devotees were taking baths in rivers.