Stampede at Goa Festival: In a heartbreaking incident, a religious festival turned tragic in Goa as at least six people lost their lives and over 60 were injured during a stampede at the Shree Lairai Zatra in Shirgao village, Bicholim. The annual celebration, held in honour of Goddess Lairai, drew thousands of devotees, but the joy quickly turned into panic early Saturday morning.
All You Need to Know
- Date of incident: May 3, 2025
- Location: Shirgao village, Bicholim, Goa
- Festival: Shree Lairai Zatra (annual procession of Goddess Lairai)
- Casualties: At least 6 dead, over 60 injured
- Injured condition: 8 in critical condition, several on ventilator support
- Emergency response: 108 ambulance services, multiple hospitals on alert
- Cause: Suspected electric shock that triggered panic
What Happened at the Festival?
The festival of Goddess Lairai is one of Goa’s most famous religious events, attracting large crowds not just from Goa, but also from Maharashtra and Karnataka. Devotees gathered around midnight at the Shirgao temple for special rituals like sitting around the sacred fire and walking on embers, known locally as ‘agnidivya’.
Around 4 to 4:30 am, chaos broke out when some people felt a sudden electric shock. Eyewitnesses said it caused a wave of panic among the crowd. People began pushing and running in all directions, leading to a deadly stampede. Many fell and got trapped under others in the rush.
Victims Identified
Among the deceased were six individuals, including two women and a 17-year-old boy. Their names have been confirmed as:
- Surya Mayekar from Sakhali
- Pratibha Kalangutkar from Kumbharjua
- Yeshwant Kerkar from Thivim
- Sagar Nandarge from Mathwada, Piligao
- Aditya and Tanuja Kauthankar from Auchit Wada, Thivim
Health officials have reported that eight injured people are in very serious condition, with two on ventilator support. Others are admitted to Goa Medical College, Asilo Hospital, and North Goa District Hospital.
Authorities React Quickly
As soon as the incident happened, emergency services were rushed to the spot. A total of ten ambulances, including five from the 108 service, were deployed. Medical officers were stationed at nearby hospitals to ensure timely care for the victims.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant personally visited the hospitals and said the health department is on high alert. He also confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to him and assured full support from the Centre.
PM Modi also tweeted his condolences:
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.”
Security Was in Place, But It Wasn’t Enough
Despite huge security arrangements—including deployment of over 1,000 police personnel, drone monitoring, and a Vajra van for riot control—things went wrong. Crowd control measures failed during the sudden rush. Officers in civilian clothes were even deployed to prevent theft and pickpocketing, but the unexpected panic due to the shock was beyond control.
The exact cause is still being investigated, and whether the electric shock was accidental or due to mismanagement is yet to be confirmed.
A Festival That Turned Tragic
The Lairai Zatra is usually a time of devotion, joy, and unity for the people of Goa. But this year’s event will be remembered with pain and sadness. Families are mourning, and many are still praying for the recovery of their loved ones admitted in hospitals.
Helpline Started for Emergencies
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane confirmed that a 24/7 helpline (Dial 104) has been launched for any medical emergencies. The state is continuing to monitor every patient and provide all necessary help.
What was supposed to be a peaceful and spiritual gathering turned into a nightmare. The tragedy has left families broken and the entire Goa community in shock. While the government and hospitals are doing their best to manage the crisis, questions remain on how such an accident occurred despite the heavy police and security presence.
The state is now coming together to mourn the loss, support the injured, and pray for those battling for their lives in hospital beds.
FAQs
What caused the stampede at Lairai Zatra?
A suspected electric shock caused panic among the crowd, which led to the stampede.
How many people died and were injured?
At least six people died, and over 60 were injured. Eight of them are in critical condition.
Where is the Lairai Zatra held?
It is held at the Shree Lairai Temple in Shirgao village, Bicholim, Goa.
Who are the deceased?
The victims include Surya Mayekar, Pratibha Kalangutkar, Yeshwant Kerkar, Sagar Nandarge, Aditya and Tanuja Kauthankar.
What help is being provided to the victims?
Goa Medical College, Asilo Hospital, and North Goa District Hospital are treating the injured. Ambulances and 24/7 helpline (104) are active.
