In a stampede at the Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, at least nine devotees, including two children, died on Saturday morning (November 1, 2025). Several others were injured in the tragic incident that unfolded amid the heavy rush of pilgrims. The temple normally sees very large gatherings on Saturdays, and officials believe the massive crowd was a factor. Preliminary reports indicated that when devotees surged forward, a railing in the queue gave way, sending many people tumbling and getting trampled.
CM Chandrababu Naidu Expresses Grief on Stampede at Venkateswara Temple
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Chandrababu Naidu, reacted to the tragedy: "The death of devotees in this tragic incident is extremely heartbreaking. I express my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. I have instructed the officials to provide speedy and proper treatment to those who have been injured. I have requested the local officials and public representatives to visit the site of the incident and oversee the relief measures."
The Chief Minister has instructed the authorities to ensure immediate relief operations and medical assistance to the injured.
Rescue Efforts Underway After Deadly Stampede at Venkateswara Temple
Rescue and relief teams have reached the 12-acre temple premises, which attracts devotees from all parts of the state. Police and local authorities have cordoned off the area and are helping the families identify the victims.
Third Tragic Incident in Andhra This Year
It is the third stampede-related tragedy that has struck Andhra Pradesh in 2025. Seven people were killed when a rain-soaked wall collapsed at the Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam during the Akshaya Tritiya festival on April 30.
Earlier, on January 8, six devotees died in a stampede while collecting special darshan tickets for Lord Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala.
Series of Stampedes Raises Safety Concerns
The latest tragedy comes just days after 41 people were killed in a stampede at a political rally in Tamil Nadu, amid growing concerns over crowd management and safety at big public gatherings across southern India.
Also Read: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to attend MiG-21 decommissioning ceremony in Chandigarh toda