PATNA, India -- Dozens of children drowned while bathing in rivers and ponds in rituals that were part of a three-day Hindu festival in eastern India's Bihar state, officials said.

Heavy monsoon rains in recent times have caused water levels to rise across the state.

At least 46 people, including 37 children, have perished in separate incidents of drowning across the state's 15 districts, according to a statement released by Bihar's disaster management department. Authorities have retrieved 43 bodies thus far, and the three individuals still missing are presumed to have died.

During the annual festival, mothers observe a 24-hour fast for the well-being of their children. The women sometimes engage in cleansing rituals at rivers and ponds, often accompanied by their children. The festival concluded on Thursday.

The state government has pledged to provide financial assistance of 400,000 rupees ($4,784) to the families of each victim.

Tragic incidents like drownings and stampedes during religious festivals are sadly a recurring occurrence in India.

In July, a devastating incident occurred at a religious festival in northern India, resulting in the deaths of at least 121 individuals due to severe overcrowding and inadequate exit facilities. A stampede was the cause of this tragic event.