Tragic Stampede at Ashok Dham Temple Claims Lives of Seven Devotees

A tragic stampede at Ashok Dham Temple in Bihar has left seven devotees dead and several others injured. The incident occurred during a religious gathering for 'Jalabhishek' when panic ensued after an electric pole collapsed. Authorities are monitoring the situation as the condition of some injured individuals remains critical. Bihar's Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow and assured prompt medical assistance for the injured. This incident highlights the dangers of large crowds during religious events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 17, 2026, 12:24 IST

Devastating Incident at Ashok Dham Temple

File image of the aftermath following a stampede in Ashok Dham(Photo: IANS)

Patna, Aug 17: A heartbreaking stampede occurred at the renowned Ashok Dham Temple in Lakhisarai, Bihar, during the third Monday of the sacred month of Sawan, resulting in the deaths of at least seven devotees and injuring over eight others.

The tragedy unfolded on the path connecting Ashok Dham railway station to the temple, where a significant number of devotees had gathered for the 'Jalabhishek' ritual early Monday morning.

As per the Lakhisarai District Magistrate, the crowd surged notably between 6:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

The line of devotees extended towards Ashok Dham Halt, where two trains were reportedly present.

Panic erupted when an electric pole collapsed, leading to chaos among the devotees.

It was rumored that the fallen pole was live with electricity, prompting people to flee in various directions.

This panic resulted in a stampede, with many devotees falling and being trampled by the crowd. Local residents and fellow pilgrims quickly initiated rescue operations.

Law enforcement and administrative personnel arrived promptly after being alerted about the situation.

The injured individuals were transported to Sadar Hospital in Lakhisarai for medical attention.

Among the deceased identified thus far are Manmala Devi (44), Rinku Devi (50), Hemlata Devi (55), Lalita Devi, and three others.

Authorities are concerned that the casualty count may rise as the condition of some injured devotees remains critical.

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed profound sorrow over the incident at Ashok Dham.

In a message on X, he labeled the event as deeply tragic and extended his condolences to the bereaved families.

He assured that the administration would provide immediate and adequate medical care for all injured individuals.

Ashok Dham Temple, also referred to as Shri Indradamneshwar Mahadev Temple, is a significant religious site in Lakhisarai, famous for its large Shivling from the Pala period, which was unearthed during excavations.

The third Monday of Sawan draws an exceptionally large crowd, with pilgrims gathering to perform 'Jalabhishek'.

The unusually high number of attendees on Monday morning exacerbated the already challenging conditions that led to the sudden outbreak of panic.