Three people were killed and at least ten others sustained injuries in a Puri stampede that took place early on June 29, 2025, Sunday, morning near the Sri Gundicha Temple in Odisha's Puri town.

The Puri stampede occurred between 4:00 and 4:15 AM at Saradhabali, in front of the chariot, where a large crowd of devotees had gathered for darshan (sacred viewing) of the deities.

Thousands had been waiting at the site since midnight, following the Pahuda Niti—a ritual marking the end of darshan—which concluded at around 12:15 AM.

When the temple gates reopened for darshan at 4:00 AM, the waiting crowd surged forward. Due to the sheer pressure of the gathering, control was lost, resulting in the tragic Puri stampede.

Ten injured individuals were rushed to the Puri District Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.

Hospital officials stated that the condition of some injured persons is being closely monitored.

Initial reports of casualties were unconfirmed. However, the Puri district administration later verified that three deaths had occurred in the Puri stampede.

A formal investigation has been launched to determine the cause and to review the crowd management arrangements.

Officials have appealed for calm and urged all pilgrims participating in the Rath Yatra celebrations to strictly follow safety protocols to prevent another Puri stampede or any other untoward incident.

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