India, Jan. 29 -- Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and panic as a stampede unfolded at the Sangam during the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday, leaving several dead and many injured when a large crowd gathered for the holy bath on Mauni Amavasya.

The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya is the key ritual of the Maha Kumbh, attracting an estimated 10 crore pilgrims. This year, the spiritual importance of the day is heightened by the rare 'Triveni Yog' celestial alignment, which is taking place after 144 years.

Vivek Mishra, an eyewitness, said that the chaos at the Sangam was caused by the crowd not knowing where to go, and hidden dustbins making people trip and lose balance.

Mishra said the situation worsened when people began pushing, which led t...