6 Dead, Many Injured in Indian Temple Stampede
At least six people have been killed and 35 others injured in a stampede near one of India’s busiest and wealthiest temples, authorities confirmed on Thursday. The incident occurred at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, also known as Tirupati, in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.
Thousands of devout Hindus had gathered at the temple in hopes of securing free visit passes, as the period from Friday to January 19 is considered highly auspicious for temple visits. The stampede took place on Wednesday when the gate was opened to allow people to enter.
According to district collector S. Venkateswar, approximately 2,500 people rushed through the gate, causing several individuals to fall in the chaos. “Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the stampede,” he said.
The Sri Venkateswara Temple, which is nearly 2,000 years old, typically sells tickets for temple visits for 300 rupees ($3.50) each, available online. The temple is a popular religious destination, attracting millions of pilgrims annually.
