Fire at ISKCON camp in Kumbha Mela, 13 tents reduced to ashes

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Prayagraj, 7.2.2025 – A massive fire broke out at the ISKCON camp located at Alop-Shankaracharya Chowk in Sector 18 of the Kumbha Mela on 7th February at around 10:30 AM. The fire completely gutted 13 tents, along with beds, chairs, air conditioning units, toilets, shrines, kitchen equipment, and other materials. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported. Eyewitnesses suggested that the fire was caused by a short circuit, but the administration has yet to confirm the official reason.

The fire reduced all tents at ISKCON to ashes. The fabric of the tents, mattresses, gas from air conditioning units, and strong winds caused the flames to spread rapidly.

Aman Sharma, Deputy Director of the Fire Department, informed Sanatan Prabhat that the fire brigade was alerted by nearby camps. Upon receiving the information, firefighters arrived at the scene promptly. Although the fire was initially extinguished, it reignited after some time.

Dispute between Police and Devotees

Devotees from adjacent camps expressed strong displeasure, claiming that the ISKCON camp’s electrical equipment caused the fire to spread. They questioned the permission for air conditioners at a spiritual retreat and confronted the Police, leading to a brief tense situation.

Severe damage to Daivi Sampad Mandal camp

The fire from ISKCON’s camp spread to the Daivi Sampad Mandal camp, resulting in extensive damage. Vehicles, large tent fabrics, and other materials were completely burned. Neighbouring campers alleged that ISKCON’s air conditioning units intensified the fire.