At Least Six Dead, Over 50 Injured in Stampede At Temple In Goa's Shirgaon

A stampede during the annual Lairai Devi jatra (procession) at a temple in Goa's Shirgaon early Saturday (3 May) resulted in the death of at least six people and over 50 injuries, NDTV reported.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed sorrow over the tragic stampede.

In a statement shared by the Prime Minister’s Office, he said, “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected".

PM Modi also spoke with Goa CM Pramod Sawant and took stock of the situation.

“Deeply saddened by the tragic stampede at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgaon this morning. I visited the hospital to meet the injured and have assured all possible support to the affected families. I am personally monitoring the situation to ensure that every necessary measure is being taken. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji spoke with me and took detailed stock of the situation, offering his full support during this difficult time," Sawant said in a post on X.

The incident took place at the Sree Devi Lairai temple -- around 40 kilometres away from state capital Panaji -- when panic spread during the large religious gathering, causing a sudden rush among thousands of devotees.

Eyewitnesses described the situation as chaotic, with people struggling to get away from the densely packed crowd

The Lairai Devi jatra is celebrated every year in the north Goa village of Shirgaon. It celebrates Goddess Lairai, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati and one of the seven sister deities in Goan folklore.

The festival is known for its unique rituals, including the 'Agnidivya' (fire-walking) ceremony, where devotees, called Dhonds, walk barefoot over a bed of burning coals to seek blessings.

The annual festival is attended by thousands of devotees from Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Also Read: Delhi High Court Halts Coercive Action In Shahi Idgah Case Amid Ongoing Waqf Dispute; DDA Asserts Ownership Of Park