The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad, one of the city’s most significant religious events, turned chaotic on Friday morning after a group of elephants participating in the grand procession lost control and triggered panic among thousands of devotees. The incident occurred in the densely populated Khadia area, causing injuries to several people and raising urgent questions about safety and crowd management in massive public gatherings.
Panic Strikes as Elephants Veer Off Course
At approximately 10:15 AM, during the early stretch of the 16-kilometre-long Rath Yatra route, a male elephant suddenly became agitated and broke away from the group of 18 elephants that traditionally accompany the chariots. According to reports from The Indian Express, the male elephant charged in the opposite direction from the designated path, catching the crowd off guard and causing a stampede-like situation in the narrow lanes of the old city.
The viral video footage shared by PTI captured the intensity of the moment — mahouts struggling to regain control as devotees fled in panic, with one elephant seen charging directly toward the bystanders. Multiple media outlets confirmed that one or two other elephants also strayed momentarily, intensifying the fear and confusion.
Also read: Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Date, Significance & Rituals of India's Grandest Chariot Festival
Swift Action by Authorities: Elephant Tranquilised and Isolated
Authorities responded swiftly to the unfolding crisis. RK Sahu, Superintendent of the Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden, confirmed that the male elephant was tranquilised following standard safety protocol. Two female elephants were deployed to help guide the agitated elephant away from the crowd.
“The elephant, the only male in the group, became agitated near Desai Ni Pol in Khadia. It was immediately tranquilised and gently herded away from the crowd using two trained female elephants. The situation was brought under control quickly,” said Sahu.
Following the incident, the male elephant was isolated and removed from the procession to avoid further disruptions. The remaining 17 elephants—all female—continued with the Rath Yatra as planned, without any additional mishaps.
VIDEO | Gujarat: Chaos erupted during the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad as elephants went out of control and trampled people. Further details awaited.
(Source: Third Party)
(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/sEIiYhXmt6— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 27, 2025
The Grand Procession: Tradition, Scale, and Spiritual Significance
The Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad is a centuries-old tradition marked by grandeur and religious fervour. This year’s procession includes:
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18 elephants (originally), with only 17 continuing post-incident
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Around 100 elaborately decorated trucks showcasing thematic cultural and spiritual tableaux
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30 Akhadas (traditional gymnasiums) demonstrating martial arts and religious displays
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Devotional music groups or Bhajan Mandlis, adding to the vibrant atmosphere
The procession covers a 16-kilometre route through various parts of the city, attracting an estimated 14 to 15 lakh devotees.
AI-Based Crowd Monitoring System Introduced for First Time
Given the enormous turnout, the Gujarat government had implemented robust security arrangements, including the deployment of nearly 23,800 security personnel across Ahmedabad. Significantly, for the first time ever, an Artificial Intelligence-powered surveillance system was introduced to monitor real-time crowd movement and preempt potential stampede-like situations.
According to an official release, the AI system integrates with surveillance cameras along the entire route and assists authorities in identifying unusual crowd patterns, enabling rapid response. The initiative aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of managing such high-density events.
Fire, Police, and Medical Teams on Standby
In addition to AI surveillance, emergency response teams from the Fire Department, medical units, and police forces were stationed throughout the city. Their prompt presence helped in swiftly attending to the injured and maintaining order after the elephant scare. No fatal injuries were reported, although several people were treated for minor injuries and shock.
Visuals of the Incident Go Viral, Stirring Public Debate
The incident, captured in videos widely circulated on social media and reported by leading news agencies like PTI and ANI, has sparked a public debate around the safety of using live animals in religious processions, especially in densely packed urban settings.
While the elephants have traditionally been a majestic and symbolic part of the Rath Yatra, incidents like these have reignited calls for stricter regulations, better animal management practices, or even a rethink of their involvement in such crowded events.
A Wake-Up Call Amid Devotion and Celebration
The 2025 Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad, though marked by spiritual enthusiasm and community celebration, has also served as a critical reminder of the challenges in managing massive religious gatherings. The elephant scare incident highlights the unpredictable nature of live-animal participation in processions and underscores the importance of incorporating modern technology like AI for real-time crowd management.
As the festivities continue, devotees and authorities alike are expected to remain on high alert, ensuring the safety of both people and animals, while preserving the sanctity and tradition of this revered event.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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