At least six people were hospitalized as a result of a crowd surge during the traditional "naked festival" held in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, three of whom are in serious condition.
Medianews.az reports, citing Oxu.Az, that this information was released by Japan Public Television.
The said "naked festival" is held in the format of a mass competition. Only participants wearing a loincloth compete for wooden sticks called "shingi," which according to beliefs bring good luck, within the grounds of the temple complex.
According to the police, the crowd surge occurred in the main hall of the temple when the lights were turned off and the "shingi" were thrown into the dense crowd. Festival organizers stated that approximately 10,000 people participated in the event this year.
It should be noted that the "naked festival" tradition in Okayama is over 500 years old.