Tragedy struck during Iran's traditional fire festival as fourteen individuals lost their lives, with over three thousand others sustaining injuries, according to reports from the country's media on Wednesday (March 13).

Many of the injured are in critical condition, highlighting the severity of the incident. The Nowruz festival, scheduled for March 20 in Iran, sees Iranians celebrate by lighting fireworks and engaging in various fire-related activities as per Persian customs.

The fire festival, known as 'Chaharshanbe Suri' in Persian, is observed annually on the last Tuesday night of the Iranian calendar year, which culminates on March 20 this year. Participants traditionally jump over coal fires while chanting phrases like 'I give you my yellow color' and 'I take your red color' to cleanse themselves and ward off evil spirits.

Despite its cultural significance and festive atmosphere, the celebration often sees casualties due to accidents and mishaps. However, authorities have expressed concern over this year's unusually high number of casualties, which is several times greater than in previous years.

As the nation mourns the loss of lives and prays for the swift recovery of the injured, questions arise about the safety measures and regulations surrounding such festivities to prevent future tragedies.