India: 8 killed in wall collapse at temple in Andhra Pradesh's Simhachalam Video

Eight people have tragically lost their lives and several others have sustained injuries after a cement wall collapsed at the Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, in the early hours of April 30. 

The incident occurred while devotees were queuing for the Rs 300 ticket near the shopping complex on Ghat Road, close to Simhagiri Bus Stand, Caliber.Az reports via Indian media.

Rescue operations are currently underway as authorities work to assist the injured and retrieve those trapped under the debris. An official inquiry into the cause of the collapse has been launched.

#Simhachalam :

At least 7 devotees, including 3 women died and several others were injured after a cement wall collapsed, while standing in a queue for the ₹300 ticket at the #simhachalamtemple in #Visakhapatnam , #AndhraPradesh in the early hours today, during the annual… pic.twitter.com/nTWySzlQ0r

— Surya Reddy (@jsuryareddy) April 30, 2025

Simhachalam Temple, located in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh, India, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu. The temple, perched on the Simhachalam hill, is renowned for its architectural grandeur and religious significance.

It dates back to the 11th century, with the original structure built during the Eastern Chalukya dynasty and later expanded by the Vijayanagara rulers. The temple is famous for its blend of North and South Indian architectural styles.

The temple's sanctum enshrines Lord Narasimha in a unique form—half-man, half-lion—symbolising the divine protector of devotees. Unlike other Narasimha temples, the deity is not fully visible; it is partially covered with a thick layer of sandalwood paste, and the idol is unveiled only once a year during the Chandanotsavam festival, drawing thousands of pilgrims.

By Aghakazim Guliyev