Janmashtami at Banke Bihari temple: At least 2 people die from suffocation

At least two people died from suffocation caused by congestion at the Banke Bihari temple during Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, authorities reported on Saturday.

The event occurred during the temple’s midnight celebrations, according to police officials, who added that there was a large crowd inside the temple, and many people were smothered owing to the humid conditions.

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“During Mangla Arti at Banke Bihari in Mathura, one devotee fainted at exit gate of temple due to which movement of devotees was restricted. As there was huge crowd, many inside the premises were suffocated due to humidity. 2 people lost their lives,” Mathura Senior Superintendent of Police told news agency ANI.

Police identified the deceased as Nirmala Devi and Ram Prasad Vishwakarma, who were declared dead at the hospital. Another pilgrim slumped and fainted near the temple’s exit gate, causing devotees’ movements to be restricted.

The incident occurred during the Mangala Aarti. Six others were injured, according to preliminary reports. The injured were promptly sent to a hospital while officials took control of the situation. 

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Janmashtami was widely celebrated around the country Friday. Krishna Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna. He is regarded across India as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The celebration, also known as Gokul Ashtami, takes place on the Ashtami of Krishna Paksha, or the eighth day of the month of Bhadrapada.

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Temples were seen adorned with colourful lights, and cries of ‘Jai Shree Krishna’ could be heard echoing throughout many cities and towns. Devotees also flocked to the Lord Krishna temple in Mathura and around the country to take part in the Janmashtami midnight celebrations.