Mysuru, Karnataka: A helium gas cylinder explosion near the Jayamartanda Gate of the Mysuru Palace on Thursday evening resulted in one fatality and injuries to five others. The incident occurred around 8:30 PM, amidst a busy Christmas vacation crowd gathered for an exhibition and to admire the illuminated palace.

The deceased has been identified as Salim, a 40-year-old balloon seller from Tofiya village, Kannauj district in Uttar Pradesh. Salim, son of Khamaruddin, was reportedly filling balloons from a portable cylinder on his bicycle when the explosion occurred. He died on the spot.

The injured include Shehnaz Shabbir, 54, Lakshmi, 45, Kotresh Gutte, 54, Manjula Nanjangud, 29, and Ranjita, 30. They were immediately taken to the hospital and are currently receiving medical treatment. Initial reports indicated that Lakshmi, a resident of Bengaluru, was in critical condition, while Manjula from Kolkata, suffered a leg injury.

Seema Latkar, the Police Commissioner of Mysuru, stated that the explosion took place while the balloon vendor was filling balloons. The sudden blast caused panic in the area, which was crowded with people due to the Christmas holiday. Videos from the scene showed personal belongings scattered on the road.

Authorities cordoned off the area, and forensic experts along with sniffer dogs were deployed to gather evidence. The Forensic Laboratory confirmed that the explosion was caused by the helium gas cylinder. Police are currently investigating the matter.

The incident disrupted the festive atmosphere as vendors selling various items, including popcorn and groundnuts, were also present, catering to the large crowd. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are awaited.