Stone‑pelting erupts during Durga idol immersion in Washim over a heated Gulal dispute

On Wednesday, as the Vijayadashami crowd moved toward the immersion point near Tipu Sultan Chowk in Washim, Maharashtra, a seemingly minor disagreement over the throwing of Gulal—those bright coloured powders that sprinkle the air during the festivities—quickly blew up.

According to Sub‑Divisional Police Officer Ramkrishna Pawar, the procession passed close to a cluster of houses belonging to one community. A few participants began tossing Gulal toward the homes, a gesture that was taken as disrespectful by some residents. Two individuals voiced their objection, and within minutes the situation had escalated into a heated verbal clash.

What started as words soon turned into stone‑pelting. Both sides grabbed a handful of stones and hurled them at each other, though the projectiles were limited to a few handfuls and, thankfully, caused no serious injuries. “There was no vandalism or damage to houses or vehicles,” Pawar later clarified. “The incident was contained once the police stepped in.”

In response, the police swiftly deployed additional forces, including the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) and Rapid Action Force (RAF), and announced a temporary curfew around the affected area. The authorities are now in the process of filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against those involved, and a legal inquiry is underway.

Local residents expressed disappointment, noting that a celebration meant to unite the community had instead highlighted lingering tensions. “We came here to celebrate Durga’s victory over evil, not to throw stones at our neighbours,” one onlooker muttered, shaking his head.

The incident serves as a reminder that even festive occasions can become flashpoints when cultural sensitivities collide. Police officials have urged citizens to respect one another’s customs and to keep the streets safe during future processions.