A helium gas cylinder used to fill balloons exploded near the Jayamartanda Gate of the palace on Thursday night, killing one person and injuring four others. The incident happened around 8 p.m., during Christmas celebrations when the area was crowded with tourists and locals enjoying the illuminated palace and a concert. The police confirmed that the balloon vendor, carrying a portable cylinder on his bicycle, died in the blast. The injured were identified as Lakshmi of Bengaluru, Manjula of Nanjangud, Kotreshi of Ranebennur, and Shahina of Kolkata. They were taken to K.R. Hospital for treatment. Commissioner of Police Seema Latkar said, "The identity of the balloon seller was yet to be established. He was a regular in the area." Some sources had suggested there might be two deaths, but Ms. Latkar confirmed only one fatality. Police cordoned off the site and used sniffer dogs and forensic teams to gather evidence. It was confirmed that the explosion came from a helium gas cylinder. The investigation is ongoing.