Seven devotees, including children, sustained burn injuries after a fire broke out during Shravan Purnima celebrations at the Atma Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple in Varanasi on Saturday evening.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. during the Saptarishi Aarti, when cotton decorations inside the temple symbolising the Amarnath shrine, ignited unexpectedly. The flames spread rapidly, sparking panic among the 30 people present, including the temple priest.
In the scramble to evacuate, several devotees suffered burns. Local residents quickly stepped in, helping carry the injured to Kabir Chauraha Divisional Hospital. Authorities confirmed that all victims are receiving treatment and are out of danger.
Police and fire brigade teams arrived promptly, with locals managing to douse the flames by pouring water on the burning cotton. By 9:40 p.m., all injured had been given first aid and were stable.
Shravan Purnima, a sacred full moon day in the month of Sawan, traditionally draws large crowds to the temple, which is specially decorated for the occasion. This year&rsquo;s festivities took an alarming turn but swift community action prevented a greater tragedy.

Cotton decor catches fire during Shravan Purnima aarti, causing chaos in Varanasi temple

7 Hurt in Varanasi Temple Aarti Fire

Cotton decor catches fire during Shravan Purnima aarti, causing chaos in Varanasi temple

August 10, 2025 | 16:27 IST