Source: The Hindu
MADHYA PRADESH, INDIA, November 17, 2001: Pilgrims, visiting the famous shrine in honor of Goddess Sharda Devi at Maihar in Satna district after Diwali, were exposed to the threat of fire while climbing up the hill to the temple. Apparently a pile of coconuts were ablaze nearby the path pilgrims were ascending. Cries of “fire-fire” from a rooftop started a stampede of devotees. Sadly enough, the result of this frantic crowd resulted in the death of five women pilgrims and at least 22 others were injured. An investigation is also being conducted to determine if the coconut shell fire was started deliberately.