Lone Elephant Sparks Panic at Temple Festival in Belur

A festive night turned chaotic at Lingapura village in Belur taluk, Hassan district, when a wild tusker unexpectedly stormed into a temple celebration on Thursday night.

The incident occurred around 9 PM, during the Sri Chamundeshwari temple utsava, which was being held following recent renovations. Devotees were gathered in large numbers when the lone elephant, separated from its herd, wandered into the premises, triggering panic and a stampede-like situation.

Startled by the sudden chaos and loud screams, the elephant reportedly damaged several parked vehicles, including motorbikes and cars. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported.

To manage the situation, the temple authorities burst crackers in an effort to scare away the animal. Responding swiftly, personnel from the Forest and Police departments arrived at the scene. The elephant was eventually chased back into the Sakleshpur forest.

Range Forest Officer B.G. Yatish confirmed that over 10 elephants have been straying around the region lately. The tusker likely separated from its group due to fear and confusion, leading to the incident.

The Forest Department continues to monitor elephant movements in the area and urges local residents to stay alert during nighttime gatherings.

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