Seven Devotees Killed in Wall Collapse at Simhachalam Temple During Chandanaotsavam Festival
A tragic incident marred the annual Chandanaotsavam festival at the revered Simhachalam Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, as the collapse of a wall led to the deaths of seven devotees. The calamity has cast a pall of sorrow over the region, with state leaders expressing deep grief and promising swift action.
The festival, which draws thousands of devotees each year, took a devastating turn when a section of a wall gave way amid the large gathering. Emergency services were rushed to the scene, and rescue and relief efforts are currently underway.
Leaders Express Grief and Pledge Support
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, visibly shaken by the incident, extended his condolences to the bereaved families. “This incident is truly unfortunate,” he said. Assuring the public of the government’s full support, he added, “The government will stand by the victims in every possible way.”
Pawan Kalyan has requested a detailed report from concerned officials to understand the circumstances that led to the collapse. He also confirmed that Home Minister Anitha is personally supervising the relief and rescue operations at the temple site.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu echoed the sorrow of the state, stating, “This incident has deeply disturbed me.” He extended his sympathies to the families of the victims and assured that necessary steps would be taken to ensure accountability and prevent such tragedies in the future.
Investigation and Safety Measures Expected
Authorities are expected to launch a formal investigation into the structural failure, with many questioning whether crowd management and infrastructure preparedness were adequate for an event of this scale.
The Simhachalam temple, one of Andhra Pradesh’s most prominent religious sites, holds significant spiritual importance. The Chandanaotsavam festival, known for its large crowds and devotional fervor, has never before witnessed a tragedy of this magnitude.
As rescue efforts continue and the community mourns the loss of life, state officials have pledged both immediate relief and long-term improvements in temple safety protocols.
