Nalanda Temple Stampede: At least eight women lost their lives and several others were injured on Tuesday during a religious gathering at the Sheetla Temple in Bihar’s Nalanda district. A huge crowd had gathered for worship, which led to heavy overcrowding and a stampede-like situation causing several people to get crushed.
Out of those who died, two women have been identified so far, Rita Devi (50), wife of Dinesh Rajak from Sakunt Bihar and Rekha Devi (45), wife of Kamlesh Prasad from Mathurapur Noorsarai.
बिहार के नालंदा में शीतला मंदिर में बड़ी भगदड़। 8 लोगों की मौत। कई घायल।
देश में धार्मिक स्थलों पर क्राइड मैनेजमेंट पर तत्काल काम करने की जरूरत है। नहीं तो ऐसे हादसे होते रहेंगे। pic.twitter.com/mvm3xFDFQI
— Narendra Nath Mishra (@iamnarendranath) March 31, 2026
Those who were injured have been taken to the Model Hospital for treatment. The incident took place on the last Tuesday of the Chaitra month, when a large number of devotees had gathered at the temple, causing heavy crowding.
What Caused Nalanda Temple Stampede?
The incident happened on the last Tuesday of the Chaitra month, when a large number of devotees had gathered at the Sheetalashtami temple. There was a heavy crowd since early morning, and things turned chaotic after a sudden rumour caused panic among people.
Within seconds, the crowd became uncontrollable, leading to a stampede-like situation. Many people fell during the rush and were trampled as panic spread. The injured have been taken ot the hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Local residents, along with police and officials, carried out rescue operations and helped move the victims to safety.
How Many Were Killed at Nalanda Temple Stampede?
The Bihar government has ordered the Chief Secretary to carry out a detailed investigation into the incident. It has also instructed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured and to bring the situation at the temple back to normal as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, the Patna Commissioner has been sent to Bihar Sharif to monitor and manage the situation.
नालंदा स्थित माता शीतला मंदिर में भगदड़ की दुखद घटना अत्यंत ही पीड़ादायक है। इस हादसे में जान गंवाने वाले और घायल हुए सभी श्रद्धालुओं के परिवारजनों के प्रति अपनी संवेदनाएँ प्रकट करता हूँ।
सरकार द्वारा पीड़ित परिवारों को हर संभव सहायता और राहत प्रदान की जा रही है। घायलों के…
— Samrat Choudhary (@samrat4bjp) March 31, 2026
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed his condolences on X, calling the stampede “extremely heartbreaking.” The tragic stampede at the Mata Shitala Temple in Nalanda is deeply painful. I express my condolences to the families of all the devotees who lost their lives and were injured in this accident.
He further added, “The government is providing all possible assistance and relief to the affected families. Arrangements have been made for the proper treatment of the injured. May God grant peace to the departed souls and provide strength to the grieving families in this hour of grief. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Manisha Chauhan is a passionate journalist with 3 years of experience in the media industry, covering everything from trending entertainment buzz and celebrity spotlights to thought-provoking book reviews and practical health tips. Known for blending fresh perspectives with reader-friendly writing, she creates content that informs, entertains, and inspires. When she’s not chasing the next viral story, you’ll find her diving into a good book or exploring new wellness trends.
