A tragic incident unfolded at a political rally in Tamil Nadu, Southern India, where a stampede occurred, resulting in a death toll of 40 individuals, according to the state’s health minister. The casualties included nine children, with at least 124 people being treated for injuries in hospitals.
The rally, organized for the renowned Indian actor and politician Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, known as Vijay, drew a massive crowd in Karur district amidst high temperatures. Vijay, a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu’s entertainment industry, is also a candidate in the upcoming state elections in early 2026.
In the southern states of India, particularly Tamil Nadu, celebrities, especially film stars, hold a revered status deeply ingrained in the culture of hero worship. Many of these personalities have successfully transitioned into politics, with some even attaining divine-like reverence.
Eyewitnesses at the rally described the chaotic scene, mentioning that barriers and ropes were insufficient to control the overwhelming crowd. Vijay’s delayed arrival compounded the situation, leading to a surge of supporters and fans as he attempted to leave the venue, triggering the stampede.
Following the tragedy, investigations are underway to determine the causes of the incident. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced financial assistance for the families of the deceased. Vijay, who recently retired from acting to focus on his political party, expressed his grief over the unfortunate turn of events.
Expressing condolences, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as deeply saddening. Stampedes have been a recurring issue in India during events with large gatherings, emphasizing the need for stringent crowd management protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future.
