Over 50 Sick After Shani Puja Prasad in Assam

Guwahati: More than 50 people are currently hospitalized in Assam after eating tainted prasad. The victims fell ill following a Shani Puja ceremony held Saturday night in the Haribhanga area of Ambagan, Kaliabor. They ate fruits offered during the religious event.

Devotees soon developed severe symptoms. Patients reported fever, vomiting, and dysentery. Doctors admitted the group to the Kaliabor Sub-Divisional Civil Hospital in Jakhalabandha on Sunday morning. They remain under care as medical staff watch their recovery.

Officials have not identified the exact cause of the sickness yet. Local authorities confirmed the incident after reports surfaced from the affected villagers. Further details are awaited.

Updated at 13th September 2026 at 9:50pm

Investigators are now leaning toward food poisoning as the likely culprit behind the outbreak. The event was confirmed as the annual Shani Puja.