At least seven Hindu devotees were killed and more than 10 others seriously injured in a stampede at a Shiva temple in eastern India on Monday morning, August 17, 2026.
The incident occurred near the Ashok Dham temple in Lakhisarai, Bihar, where tens of thousands of worshippers had gathered during the holy month of Shravan. Mondays during the period are considered particularly auspicious for devotees of Lord Shiva.
According to preliminary reports, panic broke out after a fallen electricity pole allegedly caused a live wire to come into contact with the area where worshippers were queuing. The crowd reportedly rushed to safety, causing a barricade to collapse and triggering a deadly crush.
The stampede occurred at about 6:30 a.m. local time, according to the Lakhisarai District Magistrate. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as more than 10 people sustained serious injuries.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary described the incident as “extremely tragic and heart-wrenching” and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. He also announced financial assistance of about $4,184 for the immediate dependants of each deceased victim.
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed sadness over the tragedy and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and urged them to remain strong during the difficult period.
