The explosions happened while chemicals were being mixed by the workers to make fireworks in the factory, Indian officials said.

Those who injured in the explosion were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, according to the local reports.

Several fire engines raced to the scene to fight the fire, which destroyed four sheds in the factory.

Meanwhile, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter and his condolences to the families of the deceased.

“Fire at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu is saddening. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope that those injured recover soon. Authorities are working on the ground to assist those affected,” Modi tweeted.

Fireworks manufacturing is a big business in India, where many illegal factories produce fireworks that are cheaper to buy than legally made ones.