Tragedy at Simhachalam Temple: Wall Collapse During Chandanotsavam Claims Lives

Tragedy Strikes at Simhachalam Temple During Chandanotsavam Festival

On the morning of April 30, 2025, a devastating incident occurred at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam. A wall collapsed during the Chandanotsavam festival, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least eight devotees. The collapse took place around 3 AM, during the bustling hours when thousands of devotees had gathered for the rare Nijaroopa Darshan of the deity.

The Chandanotsavam is a significant event in the temple’s annual calendar, where the idol of Lord Narasimha is revealed in its original form to the public. This special darshan draws a large crowd, with the temple making extensive preparations to manage the crowd, including separate queues and ticketing systems. However, despite these arrangements, the tragic collapse occurred in the queue line for ₹300 ticket holders, where many had gathered in anticipation of the darshan.

Preliminary reports suggest that heavy overnight rains and strong winds may have weakened the structure of the wall, leading to its collapse. Emergency rescue operations were immediately launched, and those injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The injured are reported to be in stable condition, but the loss of life has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a day of spiritual significance.

The state government has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and promised to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. Authorities are focusing on whether the recent weather conditions played a role in compromising the structural integrity of the wall.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, with many reflecting on the fragility of life. While the festival usually symbolizes faith and devotion, this year’s event will forever be remembered for the sorrow that accompanied it.

As investigations continue, the authorities are vowing to strengthen safety protocols to ensure that such an incident does not repeat in the future. The community remains in mourning, with the hopes of honoring the lives lost through reflection and remembrance.