VISAKHAPATNAM, April 30, 2025 — What was anticipated as a massive religious gathering for the annual Chandanotsavam at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Simhachalam, turned grim as a wall collapse tragically claimed eight lives. The incident occurred while devotees were queuing to purchase tickets for darshan during the festival.
The collapse happened amidst arrangements to manage an expected crowd of over two lakh devotees, a significant increase from last year's estimated 1.20 lakh attendees. Officials had implemented extensive measures, including designated bus pickup points, segregated parking, and holding areas across Visakhapatnam, to facilitate the influx. The state government, represented by Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, had overseen these preparations, emphasizing provisions for basic amenities like parking, drinking water, and medical services, with a stated priority for common devotees' darshan.
Festival's Singular Draw
The Chandanotsavam is particularly significant as it is the only day of the year when devotees can witness the 'Nijaroopa darshanam,' a rare glimpse of the deity without its customary thick sandalwood covering. This unique spiritual opportunity was a major draw for the projected large turnout.
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Official Response and Investigations
Following the fatal wall collapse, an inquiry has been ordered by the Endowments Minister, Anam Ram Narayan Reddy. Rescue operations were immediately launched, with NDRF personnel and ambulances deployed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed their condolences, with the Prime Minister announcing ex-gratia payments. Opposition Leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also conveyed his sorrow over the tragedy.
Pre-Festival Arrangements
The event saw significant logistical planning. Seven bus pickup points were established, and parking areas were designated and segregated based on ticket categories. Six holding points were set up across Visakhapatnam city. Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi had conducted an inspection to finalize a detailed vehicle parking strategy. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) was slated to run additional bus services to the temple hill. Temporary shelters, free drinking water stations, medical camps, and sanitation teams were also deployed.
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Background
The Chandanotsavam is a major annual festival at the Simhachalam temple. The anticipation for this year's event was heightened by the projected increase in devotees and the unique 'Nijaroopa darshanam' opportunity. The tragedy casts a somber shadow over what was expected to be a spiritual high point for many.
