Tragedy in Vrindavan: Maha Kumbh Pilgrim Dies in Bus Fire

Uttar Pradesh - On January 14, 2025, a devastating incident unfolded in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, when a bus carrying pilgrims from Telangana to the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj went up in flames. Among the 50 passengers onboard, 60-year-old Sheelam Drupath tragically lost his life, while 49 others narrowly escaped.  

A Routine Stop Turns Deadly

The bus had halted at a tourist facility in Vrindavan, where most passengers disembarked to visit nearby temples. Drupath stayed behind in the vehicle. According to eyewitnesses, sparks erupted inside the bus, quickly spreading into an uncontrollable fire. Emergency responders reached the scene promptly, but by then, the bus was completely engulfed, leaving no chance for Drupath to escape.  

Suspected Cause of the Blaze

Preliminary investigations suggest that Drupath may have been smoking a beedi, which could have ignited the fire. While authorities have not confirmed this, the possibility highlights the dire consequences of even minor lapses in caution.