A devastating accident occurred at the ancient Huskur Madduramma fair in Karnataka as a massive chariot measuring more than 100 feet crashed due to high winds. The accident claimed the life of a 24-year-old man and injured three other people. The event, which is attended by thousands of pilgrims each year, was transformed into a scene of chaos as the chariot crashed while it was being dragged towards the temple.
One Killed In Karnataka Chariot Accident
@bngdistpol , PWD , Dist Admn clearly warned them not to increase height beyond 100 feet .
The public took warning for granted and built Kurju ( Cart ) beyond the allowed limit by putting innocent lives into risk .Result : 02 kurjus fell down . @osd_cmkarnataka pic.twitter.com/CdkKqlj3gb
— Capt.Santhosh. K.C. (@captsanthoshkc) March 22, 2025
The deceased, Lohith, was a local of Huskur, which is on the southern periphery of Bengaluru. Lohith was part of the traditional procession when the chariot came crashing down. Police say that Lohith was quickly taken to a nearby hospital but died by that time.
As reported by Deccan Herald, among the three injured, a 16-year-old girl was severely injured, while two others are stable. The accident took place at about 6 pm on Friday when there was a huge crowd at the festival.
In another similar but separate incident, another chariot also fell near Doddanagamangala. Luckily, there were no reports of casualties from the second accident, although a number of vehicles were affected.
The Karnataka chariot accident has been caused by unexpected alterations in the weather, according to authorities. CK Baba, Bengaluru Rural Superintendent of Police (SP), confirmed that initial investigations indicate heavy rain and gusty winds caused the collapse. Footage at the scene indicated that the chariot had swayed before it finally collapsed.
The authorities are now carrying out a thorough investigation to ascertain whether there was any negligence in the organisation of the event. If any lapses are discovered, charges can be pressed under applicable sections of the law for death due to negligence.
Also Read: Fire Breaks Out At Powai Sai Sapphire Tower, 60 Residents Safely Evacuated
Madduramma Fair: The Timeless Classic Rattled By Tragedy
Not so auspicious Madduramma Devi Jathre… this year. Rayasandra, Doddanagamangala( Anekal, B’luru) didn’t reach Huskuru Temple… News is that certain traditions weren’t followed. @Pruthvinreddy @KiranKS @surnell @NammaAnekal @ashwin_1607 pic.twitter.com/Rhd6HCt5Hx
— Reddy Murali (@ReddyMurali6677) March 22, 2025
The Huskur Madduramma fair has a tradition of more than 100 years and it draws pilgrims from all over Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
As a part of the festival tradition, farmers from nearby villages bring tractors and oxen to assist in pulling the chariot. A few tractors were damaged in the accident.
The local government is now evaluating the situation to avoid such accidents in the future. Although the Karnataka chariot accident has put a shadow on this year’s festival, pilgrims are still coming, offering their prayers to the god in the wake of increased safety precautions.
Also Read: Massive Fire Breaks Out At A Polymer Factory In Navi Mumbai; Firefighters Rushed To The Spot
We can only hope that future celebrations place safety above all else and that faith and celebration walk side by side without the spectre of tragedy.
Cover Image Courtesy: @captsanthoshkc/X & Canva (For Representation)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
First Published: March 23, 2025 9:59 AM