An 80-year-old sevak of the Mahakal Temple, who was injured in a fire that broke out inside the temple’s ‘Garbhagriha’ (sanctum sanctorum) on Holi, has passed away while undergoing treatment.
The sevak, Satyanarayan Soni, was receiving treatment at Aurobindo Hospital in Indore before being transferred to a hospital in Mumbai, where he died on Tuesday night.
Ujjain Collector Neeraj Kumar Singh explained, “A fire incident occurred inside the ‘Garbhagriha’ of the temple on Holi (March 25), resulting in Soni sustaining burn injuries. After receiving initial treatment at Ujjain district hospital, he was transferred to Aurobindo Hospital in Indore. However, due to his diabetic condition, he was unable to recover and was subsequently moved to Mumbai for further treatment.”
Despite efforts, Soni’s condition did not improve, and he passed away. The administration covered his treatment expenses, and the temple committee also contributed to his treatment. The collector assured that the administration is providing all necessary assistance.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his condolences, describing Soni’s death as a personal loss. “The passing of Mahakal devotee Satyanarayan Soni, who was injured in the fire accident during Bhasma Aarti at the Mahakal temple on Holi, is deeply saddening. Our thoughts are with the grieving family,” the CM shared on X.
He also prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace and for the family to find strength during this difficult time.
A total of 14 people were injured in the fire incident. Of these, ten have been discharged from the hospital, while three are still receiving treatment.