Sat Nov 01 10:27:18 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
A tragic stampede occurred at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, on November 1, 2025, during a period of high pilgrimage for Karthika Ekadasi. Eyewitnesses describe a chaotic scene with a huge, uncontrollable crowd, insufficient security, and panicked devotees. Many were trapped, struggling to breathe, and some required CPR. Several people were injured, and many more were traumatized. Devotees had traveled from across the district and neighboring Odisha to visit the temple.
News Article:
Deadly Stampede at Sri Venkateswara Temple in Srikakulam District
Visakhapatnam, India – November 1, 2025 – A stampede at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga of Palasa, Srikakulam district, has left an unknown amount injured and countless others traumatized on Saturday, November 1, 2025. The incident occurred during a surge of devotees visiting the temple for Karthika Ekadasi.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and panic. Ginni Swathi, a devotee from Cherukupalli village, stated that the crowd was “huge and uncontrollable” with a notable lack of police and private security. She narrowly escaped injury but witnessed harrowing scenes of people trapped, struggling to breathe, and being administered CPR at the scene.
Another devotee, R. Meena, who visited the temple with her young son, sustained minor injuries. She recounted being pushed from behind as the queue stalled. “The entire situation was extremely frightening. We had a miraculous escape,” she said.
Devotees reported that visitors had traveled from across the Srikakulam district and from bordering regions of Odisha, some travelling as far as 100km. R. Parvathi, from Odisha, was shocked to learn of the tragedy after completing her visit and returning home.
The cause of the stampede is under investigation. Temple authorities have yet to release an official statement.
First Piper 