What Caused the Fire and Injuries During Shravan Purnima Aarti in a UP Temple?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A tragic fire incident during the Shravan Purnima 'Aarti' at Atma Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple in Varanasi left seven injured. Eyewitnesses recount the chaos as flames erupted, leading to a stampede. Thankfully, all victims are recovering. Read on to uncover the details behind this alarming event.
Key Takeaways
- Seven individuals suffered burns during a temple fire.
- The fire broke out due to decorative cotton catching fire.
- Over 30 devotees were present, leading to a stampede-like situation.
- All injured individuals are currently recovering in hospitals.
- Local residents played a crucial role in extinguishing the flames.
Varanasi, Aug 10 (NationPress) At least seven individuals sustained severe burns following a stampede-like incident triggered by a fire at the Atma Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi during an 'Aarti' ceremony held to celebrate Shravan Purnima on August 9, according to police reports on Sunday, who confirmed that all victims are on the path to recovery.
The incident transpired on Saturday evening amidst the 'Aarti'.
The victims, which included two to three children, were rushed to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities reassured that all injured individuals are out of danger and are receiving necessary medical attention.
The fire broke out around 8 p.m. during the Saptarishi Aarti when decorations made of cotton inside the temple suddenly ignited. Within moments, the flames spread extensively.
At that time, over 30 worshippers, including the temple priest, were present. In the ensuing panic, many devotees fled the temple, resulting in several sustaining burns.
An eyewitness shared, "Every year, on the full moon of Sawan, the Atma Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple undergoes special decorations, and worship is conducted. This year's decorations featured cotton to symbolize the Amarnath Temple. Unfortunately, during the 'Aarti', the cotton caught fire and quickly spread."
"Approximately 30 devotees were present when the fire erupted. They were evacuated in a hurry, leading to numerous burn injuries," he recounted.
As flames erupted from the temple, nearby residents rushed in to assist, transporting the injured to the divisional hospital for care.
Upon receiving the alarm, police from the Chowk police station, along with a bike-mounted fire engine from the fire brigade, promptly arrived at the scene.
Local residents successfully extinguished the burning cotton by pouring water over it, according to police reports.
By 9:40 p.m., first aid was being administered to the burn victims at the divisional hospital. The injured devotees are being treated at Kabir Chauraha Divisional Hospital in Varanasi.
Point of View
It’s essential to highlight the need for stringent safety measures in places of worship. This incident is a reminder of the potential dangers present during large gatherings, even in sacred spaces. Our thoughts are with the injured, and we urge temple authorities to review safety protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at the temple?
The fire was caused by cotton decorations igniting during the 'Aarti' ceremony.
How many people were injured?
At least seven people sustained serious burns in the incident.
Are the injured individuals recovering?
Yes, authorities have confirmed that all injured individuals are out of danger and recovering.
What measures were taken during the incident?
Local residents and police helped extinguish the fire and transported the injured to hospitals.
Was anyone else present during the fire?
Yes, over 30 people, including the temple priest, were present at the time of the fire.
