Wed Apr 30 00:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Eight Devotees Killed in Wall Collapse at Simhachalam Temple
**Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh:** A tragic accident marred the Chandanotsavam festival at the Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam, leaving eight devotees dead. The incident occurred early this morning when a wall collapsed in a queue line of devotees waiting for special darshan.
The tragedy comes just days after a stampede at Tirupati during Vaikuntha Ekadashi. This year’s Chandanotsavam held particular significance as it was the first since the current government came to power, prompting high-profile visits from ministers to oversee arrangements. Despite these efforts, the devastating wall collapse occurred.
The Chandanotsavam festival, during which the deity Varaha Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy is revealed in its adorned form, attracts a massive crowd annually. While the temple administration has yet to release an official statement, the wall collapse is reported to have occurred amidst a large gathering of devotees who had queued up for special darshan tickets. The incident is being described as the first of its kind in recent times at the Simhachalam temple. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the wall collapse and assess the safety measures in place.
First Piper 