Tragedy Strikes: Stampede at Mata Sheetla Temple Claims Lives in Bihar

A devastating stampede at the Mata Sheetla Temple in Nalanda, Bihar, has resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and left one person critically injured. The incident occurred during prayers, prompting immediate rescue efforts from local authorities and residents. Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister expressed condolences and assured support for the affected families. This tragedy follows previous incidents of crowd surges at religious events, raising concerns about safety measures at such gatherings. Read on for more details about this heartbreaking event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 31, 2026, 12:28 IST

Fatal Stampede at Mata Sheetla Temple

Nalanda: A tragic stampede occurred during prayers at the Mata Sheetla Temple in Nalanda, Bihar, on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and leaving one person critically injured, according to police reports.

The chaos unfolded at the Madhda Sheetla Temple, located in the Deepnagar police jurisdiction.

Emergency responders, along with local residents, rushed to the scene to provide aid and initiate rescue operations. Footage from the incident showed a large gathering of devotees within the temple premises.

Rescue teams are actively engaged in relief efforts, and the injured are being transported to nearby hospitals for medical care.

Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances that led to the stampede.

Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister, Samrat Choudhary, expressed his sorrow over the incident.

In a message shared on X, Choudhary stated, "The heartbreaking stampede at the Mata Sheetla Temple in Nalanda is a tragedy. I extend my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and those injured in this unfortunate event."

He assured that the government would provide all necessary support to the affected individuals.

"We are committed to offering every possible assistance and relief to the families impacted. Arrangements have been made for the proper medical treatment of the injured," he added.

"May God grant peace to the souls lost and provide strength to the grieving families during this difficult time. I also pray for the quick recovery of the injured," the Deputy Chief Minister concluded.

This incident follows a similar tragedy last November, where nine people, including eight women and a 13-year-old boy, lost their lives during a crowd surge at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam district, which was overwhelmed by around 25,000 devotees.

Moreover, the Maha Kumbh stampede in Prayagraj in February 2025 also resulted in multiple fatalities due to collapsing barricades on Akhara Marg.