Ganesh idol topples during rain in Maharashtra, devotees trapped underneath

Panic erupted in Maharashtra’s Nalasopara after a Ganesh idol toppled during heavy rain, with several devotees trapped underneath and later rescued

PGurus Newsdesk

September 13, 2026

Panic erupted in Maharashtra’s Nalasopara after a Ganesh idol toppled during heavy rain, with several devotees trapped underneath and later rescued

Heavy rain and strong winds caused a Ganesh idol to topple during a procession in Nalasopara, trapping several devotees underneath

A major mishap was narrowly avoided in Maharashtra’s Palghar district after a Ganesh idol toppled onto devotees during an arrival procession amid heavy rain and strong winds on Saturday evening.

The incident occurred in Nalasopara West, where members of a Ganeshotsav mandal were transporting the idol from an artisan’s workshop to their pandal ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi.

As the procession moved through the area, sudden heavy rain and gusty winds prompted devotees to gather around the idol and cover it with a plastic tarpaulin. During the effort, the trolley carrying the idol reportedly became unstable, causing the idol to tilt and fall.

Devotees trapped under idol rescued

The sudden collapse sparked panic among those present. Around four to five people were believed to have become trapped underneath the fallen idol.

However, fellow devotees and local residents immediately rushed to the spot and worked together to pull those trapped underneath to safety.

Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported in the incident. The idol also remained intact.

A video circulating on social media shows devotees attempting to shield the idol from the rain moments before it lost balance and toppled.

Another Ganesh idol accident in Thane

A separate incident involving a Ganesh idol was reported in Thane district on Saturday.

The idol was being transported during an arrival procession in Bhayander West when it lost balance near Golden Nest Chowk. The idol was reportedly damaged in the fall, while a young man sustained injuries.

The incidents come just ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, with heavy rain and strong winds adding to safety concerns during idol transportation and public processions across parts of Maharashtra.

With weather conditions remaining unsettled in the region, organisers and devotees are likely to face increased challenges while conducting Ganeshotsav processions safely.

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