In Patna, India, Hindu worshippers gathered on the banks of the River Ganges to celebrate the ancient Chhath festival on Monday. Rituals including holy bathing, fasting and standing in water for long periods of time are performed over the course of four days to thank the Sun God Surya for sustaining life on earth. According to news reports, a bridge made of bamboo and roped collapsed as devotees were leaving after praying with the sunset. An early death count suggests 18 worshippers died and at least 20 were injured as part of an ensuing stampede.