Kasargod, Kerala: A catastrophic firecracker explosion during the Theyyam festival at Anjoottambalam Veerar Kaav temple in Neeleswaram, Kasargod, has left over 150 people injured, many critically. According to eyewitnesses, a firecracker from the display accidentally fell into a shed filled with additional firecrackers, triggering a powerful explosion that shook the festival grounds.
The incident, which took place around midnight, occurred as thousands of devotees were gathered to witness the traditional Theyyam ritual. The explosion sparked chaos, with injuries resulting from severe burns and a panicked stampede as people scrambled for safety. Emergency teams rushed the severely injured to hospitals in Kasargod, Kannur, and private facilities in Mangalore for urgent care.
District Collector K. Imbasekhar and Police Chief D. Shilpa immediately mobilized rescue operations, dispatching ambulances and medical aid to the scene. Shocking video footage on social media shows the shed engulfed in flames and the frantic response of devotees.
Authorities have temporarily suspended the festival—a major cultural event in North Kerala—as investigations are underway to assess the cause of the explosion and secure the temple grounds.
