At least 10 devotees killed in stampede at Andhra Pradesh temple

KASIBUGGA : A sacred day of devotion turned into tragedy on Saturday when a stampede at the Venkateswara Swami Temple in Kasibugga claimed at least ten lives and left several others injured.

The incident unfolded during Ekadashi, a major Hindu observance that draws large crowds to temples across the country. Thousands of devotees had gathered for darshan at the centuries-old shrine when a sudden surge in the queue near a narrow passage triggered panic and chaos.

Eyewitnesses described heart-wrenching scenes as worshippers, many holding prayer baskets, were swept into the crush. Some fainted, while others screamed for help as people stumbled and fell in the frantic push forward.

Emergency personnel and police rushed to the temple complex, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities said the death toll could rise as several victims are in critical condition.

Local officials acknowledged that attendance far exceeded expectations, raising questions about crowd management and preparedness. Preliminary reports suggest the temple premises, designed to accommodate a limited number of visitors at a time, were overwhelmed by the influx.

The Andhra Pradesh government has ordered an inquiry into the incident. Senior officials have been dispatched to oversee relief operations, and the families of the victims are expected to receive compensation.

Chief Minister’s Office expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families, calling the tragedy “deeply distressing” and urging strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

As investigations begin, the stampede has renewed calls for improved crowd-control systems at religious venues—especially during festival periods when turnout peaks.

What started as a morning of prayer and faith ended in sorrow, leaving a tight-knit community shaken and families mourning loved ones who came seeking blessings.