May 2, 2025 – Srigaon, Goa
A stampede occurred in a huge crowd during the traditional Jatra of Larai Devi held in Srigaon, Goa, on Friday night. At least 6 people lost their lives, and more than 30 people were injured in this tragic accident.
Like every year, this time too, thousands of devotees had gathered at Lerai Jatra. As the night progressed, the crowd kept increasing. Meanwhile, there was a sudden panic, and a stampede situation developed within no time. Some people did not get a chance to recover, and 6 people lost their lives in the accident. More than 30 injured people were immediately admitted to the Goa Medical College (GMC) and the North Goa District Hospital in Mapusa.
Given the huge crowd of people, 1,000 policemen were already deployed, and the crowd was being monitored by drones. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, his wife Sulakshana, MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, and the local MLA were also present at the Jatra on the first day.
As soon as the news of the accident was received, CM Sawant himself reached the spot and went to the hospital to inquire about the condition of the injured. He also gave instructions to provide better treatment to all the injured. At present, the incident is being investigated, and the administration says that necessary steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
Larai Devi is a major centre of faith in Goa. In this festival, devotees called Dhond walk barefoot on burning embers. This ritual is considered a symbol of the faith of the devotees. With drums, chanting, and procession, this night-long event is a kind of festival of faith, in which thousands of people from nearby villages participate. By morning, this tradition of walking on embers is completed, and people return home with the blessings of the goddess.
