How Did Bees Attack Devotees at MP Temple, Injuring 8?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tara Mai Devi Temple is located in Prithvipur, Niwari district.
- The bee attack occurred during a havan ritual.
- All injured individuals are from Indore.
- Authorities are reviewing safety measures.
- The incident highlights the need for better crowd management in religious gatherings.
Bhopal, Sep 28 (NationPress) A sacred ritual at the Tara Mai Devi Temple in Prithvipur tehsil, located in Niwari district, was thrown into disarray on Sunday when a swarm of bees launched an attack on devotees, leading to a stampede that left nine individuals severely injured.
All affected are from Indore. The incident took place during a havan (sacred fire ritual) on Sunday morning at the hilltop temple.
Witnesses reported that as the ritual continued, the smoke from the havan seemed to disturb a nearby swarm of bees, which then targeted the crowd. This led to widespread panic as attendees attempted to escape, causing a chaotic stampede.
The injured were quickly transported to the Community Health Center in Prithvipur, but due to the seriousness of their injuries, they were subsequently referred to Jhansi Medical College for more comprehensive medical care.
The injured individuals include Babulal (45), his mother Gomti Bai (55), Jamuna Prasad (60), Anita (38), Umesh (40), Kartik (8), Gori (8), and 13-year-old Nitin.
Gomti Bai's condition is reported to be critical. According to police, the family had initially traveled to Gwalior before visiting the Tara Mai Temple to offer their prayers.
After the priest completed the rituals of the havan puja, they were about to eat prasadam when suddenly, bees attacked from all sides, causing confusion and fear among the devotees.
Police officials noted that the temple is situated in a densely forested area, which is known for its high bee population.
The smoke from the ritual likely disturbed the bees, resulting in the unexpected assault.
The Tara Mai Devi Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination, particularly for devotees from both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
This unsettling event has sparked concerns regarding safety protocols during large religious gatherings, especially in forested regions.
Authorities are anticipated to evaluate the situation and may provide guidelines to avert similar occurrences in the future.
Meanwhile, temple management has expressed sorrow over the incident and has promised to work with local authorities to ensure the safety of those visiting the temple.
Medical teams at Jhansi are actively monitoring the conditions of the injured while police have initiated investigations into the events leading up to the stampede.