Key Points
- A tragic stampede at the Shri Lairai Jatra in Shirgao, Goa, on May 2, 2025, left at least 7 people dead and over 30 seriously injured.
- The incident occurred during peak festivities when thousands of devotees crowded the temple premises.
- Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant visited the injured at local hospitals and ordered immediate medical support and a thorough investigation.
- Despite the deployment of 1,000 police personnel, drones, and advanced crowd control measures, the massive turnout overwhelmed the arrangements.
- The annual Jatra draws devotees from Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, making it one of the state’s largest religious gatherings.
Panjim: A night of devotion turned into tragedy in Shirgao, North Goa, as a sudden stampede during the revered Shri Lairai Jatra festival claimed at least seven lives and left more than 30 people seriously injured on Friday, May 2, 2025. The annual festival, which draws thousands of devotees from across Goa and neighboring states, was underway at the Lairai Devi Temple when panic broke out amid the dense crowd.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to eyewitnesses and officials, the stampede occurred late at night as devotees surged toward the temple to participate in traditional rituals. The overwhelming turnout, combined with a sudden rush in the crowd, led to chaos and a deadly stampede. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, transporting the injured to Goa Medical College, North Goa District Hospital, and Bicholim Hospital.
Among the injured, one person remains in critical condition, while others are reported to be stable. The identities of the deceased are being confirmed, and their families have been notified.
Massive Security Deployment Could Not Prevent Disaster
This year’s Shri Lairai Jatra saw the largest-ever deployment of police and security personnel in the festival’s history. Over 1,000 officers, including special police units, drones for aerial surveillance, and riot control vehicles, were stationed at the venue to manage the crowd and ensure safety. Despite these efforts, the sheer volume of pilgrims-many of whom travel from Maharashtra and Karnataka-overwhelmed the arrangements, exposing gaps in crowd management strategies.
Police in both uniform and plain clothes were present to monitor the crowd, prevent crimes, and manage traffic flow. However, the sudden surge proved too much for even the most robust security measures.
CM Sawant Responds, Orders Immediate Action
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant visited the injured at local hospitals, met with their families, and directed officials to provide all necessary medical care. He also called for a thorough investigation into the incident, promising that lessons would be learned to prevent such tragedies in the future. “The safety of every devotee is our top priority. We will ensure all support to the affected families and review crowd control protocols for future events,” Sawant stated.
About Shri Lairai Jatra
The Shri Lairai Jatra is one of Goa’s most significant religious festivals, attracting devotees who fast for five days and participate in rituals such as the famous dhond (coal-walking) ceremony. The event is a major cultural highlight, but its growing popularity has raised concerns about crowd safety and infrastructure.
The stampede at Shirgao’s Shri Lairai Jatra has cast a shadow over one of Goa’s most cherished traditions. With seven lives lost and dozens injured, the tragedy highlights the urgent need for improved crowd management and safety protocols at large religious gatherings. The state government has pledged support for the victims and a comprehensive review to prevent future disasters.
