Stampede at Kashibugga Venkateswara Swami Temple in Andhra Pradesh

10 devotees killed; concerns raised over repeated incidents in temples

Srikakulam (Andhra Pradesh) – A tragic stampede at the Kashibugga Venkateswara Swami Temple on the auspicious occasion of Kartik Ekadashi claimed the lives of at least ten devotees, while many others sustained serious injuries. Officials fear that the death toll may rise as several of the injured are in critical condition. The district administration has ordered an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the incident, particularly focusing on crowd management lapses.

Tragedy in Andhra Pradesh: Stampede at Kasibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple claims 10 lives.

Repeated stampedes at Hindu temples are deeply shameful and heartbreaking.

It’s time for a national-level safety plan to protect devotees during major festivals and gatherings.

PC:… pic.twitter.com/BNJdvoXgsi

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) November 1, 2025

1. Thousands of devotees had gathered at the temple since early morning for darshan and the crowd increased as more people arrived. The situation turned alarming when at the main entrance some commotion triggered panic creating chaos. Several devotees fell on the ground and others ran stepping on them.

2. Eyewitnesses reported that the security arrangements were inadequate considering the scale of the crowd. “From the morning itself, the crowd was swelling. There were too few personnel to manage it. Eventually, the situation got out of control.”

3. Expressing deep sorrow, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu issued a statement – “I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in this unfortunate incident. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I have directed officials to ensure the best medical care for the injured. Local representatives and authorities will be on-site to oversee relief measures.”