Video: Fire breaks out at Ujjain Mahakal Temple in India during ‘bhasma aarti’ as part of Holi; 14 hurt
Fire incident injures 13 at Ujjain's Mahakal temple
A fire occurred at Ujjain Mahakal Temple in central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh on Monday (Mar 25) injuring at least 14people, including five priests, during the Holi festival. The fire broke out inside the 'garbhagriha' or the sanctum sanctorum during ‘bhasma aarti’ being performed as part of Holi festivities. All injured were rushed to the hospital for treatment.
"The fire suddenly flared up during 'bhasma aarti' when 'gulal' was being offered to Mahakal. A cover was placed in the sanctum sanctorum due to 'dhulendi', which caught fire and fell on the priests and devotees," priest Aashish Pujari was quoted as saying in media reports.
What happened?
According to media reports, as gulal was being thrown in air to celebrate Holi, some of it landed on Puja thali that had burning camphor. Then, the camphor fell on to the floor and the fire spread.
"Fourteen priests suffered burn injuries. Some are being treated in the district hospital here, while eight have sought treatment in Indore. A magisterial probe has been ordered. It will be conducted by Zila Panchayat CEO Mrinal Meena and Additional Collector Anukool Jain and a report will be submitted in three days," one official said.
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In a post on X, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the incident was unfortunate but the situation is under control now.
"A few priests have been injured and they have been admitted to hospitals in Indore and Ujjain. I am going there. I have ordered a magisterial investigation and will ensure that these things won't repeat. Action will be taken against those at fault," he said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said he was praying for the recovery of the injured.
A district official earlier said 13 people were injured in the accident.
"A fire broke out during bhasma aarti in the 'garbhagriha'. 13people are injured in the incident...Their medical treatment is underway," said district official Neeraj Kumar Singh.
The entire incident was recorded in the CCTC camera, the official said.
(With inputs from agencies)