A shocking video from inside the nightclub has revealed the moment the fire began. The clip shows a woman belly-dancing on stage as live music plays. Suddenly, flames appear from the roof, forcing the performers to stop. Panic spreads instantly as people rush out. Someone in the background shouts, “aag lag gayi”. Within seconds, fire engulfs the roof and spreads rapidly, leaving no time for many to escape.
The footage has intensified outrage as families try to understand how a night of entertainment turned into one of Goa’s worst tragedies.
25 Dead as Fire Sweeps Through Packed Nightclub
The fire broke out shortly after midnight at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora. The venue was crowded with tourists and employees when flames shot through the structure. At least 25 people died, including four tourists and fourteen staff members. Most victims were trapped inside enclosed areas where smoke built up quickly, causing suffocation.
A fire at a Goa nightclub post midnight on Sunday killed at least 25 people, including 14 staff members and some tourists. The incident occurred at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora village, North Goa, situated approximately 25 kilometres from the state capital, Panaji… pic.twitter.com/827zhV0eXo
— Hindustan Times (@htTweets) December 7, 2025
Rescue teams battled thick smoke in the early hours. Several injured people were taken to hospitals, while authorities continued to search the site for survivors and evidence.
Conflicting Accounts on What Triggered the Blaze
Officials initially suggested the fire may have started due to a cylinder blast. But several eyewitnesses insist the flames erupted from the roof or upper floor, not from any kitchen area. Many say the fire began above the stage while the performance was in progress, matching what the video appears to show.
With no final forensic report yet, investigators are still examining electrical wiring, structural materials, and eyewitness testimonies to determine the exact cause.
Unsafe Design, Narrow Exits Made Escape Impossible
Witnesses say the club’s layout created chaos. The entrance and exit were narrow, causing a stampede when flames spread. The building also stood in a location where fire engines reportedly struggled to reach quickly.
People panicked and ran downstairs toward the kitchen and basement, believing it was the closest escape route. But these areas filled with smoke quickly, trapping many of the victims.
Officials have also pointed out that the building used decorative materials that caught fire easily, including roof elements made of highly flammable items.
Owner Identified; FIR Filed, Arrests Expected
Authorities have identified the operator of Birch by Romeo Lane as Saurabh Luthra. Local officials say the club had ongoing disputes involving landowners and business partners, which had earlier led to complaints.
A magisterial inquiry has been ordered. An FIR has been registered against the owner and general manager. Arrests are expected as investigators examine licenses, safety permissions, and the structural legality of the building.
Illegal Construction Allegations Raise Bigger Questions
Local administrators claim the nightclub lacked construction permissions and was built in a restricted zone. A demolition notice had reportedly been issued earlier, but was stayed during the appeal. Now, investigators are looking into how the venue continued operations despite complaints and alleged violations.
Goa’s Nightlife Faces Scrutiny After Tragedy
The tragedy has deeply shaken Goa’s nightlife and tourism sector. Safety checks are being ordered across multiple clubs and entertainment venues. Many are demanding stricter enforcement of fire-safety laws and immediate audits to prevent another disaster.
As inquiries continue, families await accountability — and the video showing those first sparks stands as a painful reminder of how quickly the night turned deadly.
