Ganpati Visarjan: Tragedy strikes as One Dead, Five Injured due to electrocution
Mumbai, September 7, 2025: A somber incident marred the Ganesh idol immersion procession in Mumbai’s Sakinaka area on Sunday morning, leaving one person dead and five others injured due to electrocution, according to civic officials. The tragedy unfolded around 10:45 a.m. on Khairani Road when a live electric wire came into contact with a Ganpati idol, sending a surge of electricity through six devotees nearby, as reported by local police.
The victims were swiftly rushed to medical facilities by local residents. One individual, identified as 36-year-old Binu Sukumaran Kumaran, was taken to the civic-run Seven Hills Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. The five other injured devotees were admitted to nearby private hospitals for treatment, though their conditions were not disclosed by officials.
The incident occurred amidst Mumbai’s vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, which culminated in the grand farewell to Lord Ganesh on Anant Chaturdashi. Despite the city’s festive atmosphere, marked by heavy rains and heightened security due to a recent bomb threat, the electrocution cast a shadow over the proceedings. The Hindu reported that over 18,000 idols were immersed across the city, with authorities deploying extensive measures, including CCTV surveillance and lifeguards, to ensure safety during the processions.
This tragic event underscores the risks posed by overhead electrical hazards during large-scale public gatherings. The local police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, with preliminary reports suggesting the dangling wire accidentally touched the idol, leading to the fatal outcome. The Hindu’s coverage highlights the need for enhanced safety protocols to prevent such accidents in future celebrations.
As Mumbai bids farewell to ‘Ganpati Bappa,’ the loss of life serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance during festive processions. The community mourns the loss of Binu Sukumaran Kumaran, and authorities are expected to review safety measures to safeguard devotees in upcoming festivals.