Ganesh idol falls in Telangana, injures two devotees
The Ganesh idol toppled while being lifted with a crane during immersion preparations in Telangana, leaving two devotees injured.
Hyderabad: In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Telangana were overshadowed by tragedy on Friday, September 5. What began as a day of faith and devotion turned grim when a Ganesh idol accidentally toppled onto devotees during the immersion process in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district.
According to eyewitnesses, the idol was being shifted with the help of a crane when it suddenly lost balance and fell. In the chaos that followed, devotees standing nearby screamed and rushed to rescue those trapped beneath. Two people were injured in the incident and were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Doctors later confirmed that while both victims were out of danger, they had suffered painful injuries and were shaken by the sudden mishap.
Videos of the incident quickly spread across social media platforms, showing the frightening moment when the towering idol came crashing down. For many, it was a reminder of the risks involved in the large-scale idol immersions that are a major part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Telangana and across India. The incident has sparked discussions around the safety measures taken during such festive processions, where cranes, tractors, and large crowds often interact in congested spaces.
Unfortunately, this was not the only tragedy reported during the festival.
As per reports, a group of about 11 villagers from Nachapalli had travelled to the Krishna River at Beechupalli in Jogulamba Gadwal district for the immersion rituals. After completing the prayers and offerings, they began their return journey in a tractor, filled with laughter and festive spirit. But joy turned into sorrow in a matter of seconds.
Near the outskirts of Rangapuram village in Pebbair mandal, a speeding DCM truck rammed into their tractor from behind. The force of the collision was so severe that 21-year-old Mandla Shankar and 23-year-old Gupta Sai Teja died on the spot. Others travelling with them sustained injuries but survived the accident.
The loss of two young lives has left their families and village in deep grief. Relatives recalled how both youngsters had been full of energy and enthusiasm, eager to serve their community during the Ganesh festival. Their sudden demise has cast a shadow of sorrow over the celebrations, reminding everyone of how fragile life can be.
Authorities have urged citizens and organizers to remain vigilant, use proper safety equipment, and ensure precautions are taken during large-scale idol immersions.
As Telangana mourns, prayers continue—for the recovery of the injured devotees in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, and for the departed souls of Shankar and Sai Teja, whose lives were tragically cut short during a festival meant to symbolize hope, prosperity, and new beginnings.