TV
In the aftermath of the tragic stampede incident near the Gundicha Temple in the wee hours of Sunday, which reportedly claimed the lives of three devotees and left several others injured, Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb has expressed sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
Describing the event as “extremely unfortunate and heart-wrenching,” the Gajapati Maharaja, who holds a revered position as the ceremonial head of Lord Jagannath’s temple rituals, said he was deeply shocked to learn about the loss of lives and injuries sustained by devotees during the chaos at Saradhabali.
In a formal statement, the Maharaja conveyed his deepest sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives, praying for the departed souls to attain eternal peace at the lotus feet of Mahaprabhu Jagannath. He also extended emotional support to the injured and all those affected by the tragic incident.
Stressing the need for accountability and improved safety protocols, the Gajapati Maharaja urged the Odisha government to initiate an immediate and thorough investigation into the causes and circumstances surrounding the stampede.
He appealed for comprehensive and effective measures to ensure such tragedies do not recur in future Rath Yatra celebrations.
“This distressing event demands swift and detailed scrutiny. I sincerely request the Odisha government to take appropriate steps to prevent any such unfortunate incidents during major religious congregations,” the Maharaja stated.
The stampede incident has cast a dark shadow over the otherwise auspicious and spiritually uplifting atmosphere of the Rath Yatra festival. With lakhs of devotees converging in Puri to witness the divine journey of the holy trinity, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, safety and crowd management remain top priorities for both temple and civil authorities.
