Over 50 fall sick in Nagpur after consuming 'farali' snacks during Maha Shivratri fast

Over 50 people in Nagpur district, Maharashtra, became sickened by suspected food poisoning after consuming snacks and other food items during their Maha Shivratri fast.

The incidents occurred on Friday, March 8th, which coincided with the Maha Shivratri festival. Many devotees observe fasts during this holy day.

According to reports, several people in Kamptee and some areas of Nagpur city fell ill after consuming "farali" snacks, typically consumed while fasting, purchased from shops and stalls. These snacks are often made with sago, potatoes, and other ingredients. Symptoms included vomiting, stomach aches, and upset bowels.


Separate incidents involved a family in Ganesh Nagar who became sick after consuming jalebis and other sweets made from water chestnut flour, and a cloth trader who suffered illness after consuming prasad from a religious place.

Thankfully, most of those affected received treatment at hospitals and were discharged by Saturday.

Authorities are investigating the source of the illness. Police in Kamptee have collected food samples from shops for analysis by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) department.

Inputs from PTI