Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh: A tragic stampede at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga early this morning resulted in the death of at least nine devotees, predominantly women and children. The incident occurred during Ekadashi, an auspicious festival day that drew an unusually large gathering of worshippers.
According to initial reports, the situation spiraled out of control when the crowd surged toward the temple’s staircase area. Video footage from the site showed a dense crowd of devotees — many carrying puja baskets — pushing and struggling to find space, as panic spread quickly through the line.
Shocking visuals revealed bodies lying across the temple premises, while a few injured devotees were seen crying in distress. Several unconscious women were moved to ambulances as medical teams attempted to revive them.
Police personnel soon reached the temple and dispersed the crowd, helping the injured reach nearby hospitals.
Governor S. Abdul Nazeer confirmed the death toll and expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He has directed officials to ensure that the injured receive the best possible medical care.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also reacted, calling the incident “deeply distressing.”
“The stampede at the Venkateswara Temple has left us shocked. Losing devotees in such a tragic situation is heartbreaking. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families,” the Chief Minister said, adding that he has instructed authorities to provide immediate and adequate treatment to all injured.
Naidu further directed district-level officials and elected representatives to visit the accident site and oversee relief operations.
State minister Nara Lokesh expressed grief and said the tragedy had cast a pall over the festival.
“This Ekadashi has turned sorrowful. I am deeply shocked by the loss of lives. Necessary support and medical care are being provided to the injured devotees,” Lokesh stated.
Authorities have initiated an inquiry to determine what triggered the stampede and whether crowd management protocols were followed.
