Social Media Craze Over Carbide Diwali Cracker Gun Turns Fatal
At least 14 children have gone blind, and more than 120 others were hospitalised in different districts of Madhya Pradesh after playing with a dangerous toy known as the carbide Diwali cracker gun. These makeshift firecracker guns, also called desi cracker guns or mini cannons, have caused a surge in severe eye and facial injuries during Diwali celebrations this year.
What Are Carbide Diwali Cracker Guns?
The carbide Diwali cracker gun is a small, handmade device often made from plastic or tin pipes. It is filled with gunpowder, calcium carbide, and matchstick heads to create a loud blast. While it looks like a harmless toy, it is actually a crude explosive device.
When ignited, the mixture produces a sudden, violent explosion that releases burning gas and debris at high speed. These particles can strike the eyes and face, leading to serious burns, permanent vision loss, or even disfigurement.
Sudden Rise in Eye Injuries Across Madhya Pradesh
According to reports, hospitals in Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Gwalior have seen a dramatic rise in eye-related injuries linked to these homemade explosive guns.
In just three days, over 120 children were admitted with burns and eye damage. Sadly, 14 of them lost their eyesight completely, doctors confirmed.
The Vidisha district has been one of the worst affected areas, where these devices continued to be sold in local markets even after the state government banned their sale on October 18.
How the Accidents Happened
Several children told doctors that they had either bought the carbide Diwali cracker gun from local stalls or tried to make one at home after watching social media videos.
One young boy shared that he saw an online “firecracker gun challenge” and attempted to build it himself, but it exploded in his hands, severely injuring his eyes. Another seven-year-old girl said the toy exploded in front of her face, leaving her eyes badly burned.
Doctors Warn: “These Are Not Toys, They Are Explosives”
Eye specialists and trauma doctors have strongly warned parents against allowing children to use or buy the carbide Diwali cracker gun.
According to ophthalmologists, the intense heat and flying debris from these blasts can burn the retina and cause irreversible eye damage within seconds. They emphasized that these so-called toy guns are improvised explosive devices (IEDs) disguised as playthings.
Social Media and the Rise of Dangerous Trends
Police officials have noted that many small stalls are selling these items under names like “mini cannon” or “blast gun” for ₹150–₹200.
The craze is further fueled by viral social media reels and short videos encouraging children to take part in risky “firecracker gun challenges.”
Authorities have urged parents and guardians to monitor online content and discourage children from experimenting with homemade firecrackers.
Conclusion
Experts recommend that parents talk to their children about firecracker safety, especially during festivals like Diwali. Homemade or unregulated explosive toys pose serious health risks, including permanent blindness, facial injuries, and burns.
Healthcare professionals are calling for stricter enforcement of bans and greater public awareness to prevent further tragedies caused by the carbide Diwali cracker gun.
The carbide Diwali cracker gun may look like a festive toy, but it is actually a high-risk explosive. Parents must stay alert, keep such items out of children’s reach, and choose safer, regulated alternatives for festive celebrations.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 24 October 2025
- 13:00
