Turmeric catches fire during election victory celebration, six injured

Pune: Five to six people sustained burn injuries when turmeric (bhandara) offered during a local body election victory celebration caught fire near the steps of Jejuri temple, police said.

The incident occurred on Sunday after party workers gathered to offer bhandara at the feet of Lord Khanderaya following the announcement of poll results. According to Pune (Rural) Superintendent of Police Sandip Gill, the fire started when some of the turmeric fell on a lit diya (lamp), igniting the powder and causing burns to those nearby.

Winning candidates Swarupa Khomne and Monika Ghadge were among those injured and were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities said their injuries were not life-threatening.

How did turmeric catch fire

Turmeric, commonly used in Indian rituals, is generally safe in small quantities. However, the fine powder or large amounts of turmeric can be highly combustible when it comes into contact with an ignition source, such as a flame or spark. Even small rhizomes (turmeric roots) can smoulder or catch fire under heat. In rituals, turmeric falling on fabrics or near lamps can unexpectedly create fire hazards. Experts say the incident at Jejuri highlights the need for extra caution when using powders around open flames.

SP Gill confirmed that further investigations are underway.