Elderly and Disabled Urged to Avoid Banke Bihari Temple During Janmashtami

The management of Banke Bihari temple has advised elderly and disabled individuals to avoid visiting during peak hours on Janmashtami to prevent overcrowding issues. This advisory follows incidents of suffocation-related fatalities in previous years. Devotees are also urged to bring necessary medications and wear comfortable footwear.

The management of Banke Bihari temple has advised elderly and disabled individuals to avoid the temple during peak hours on Janmashtami. This precautionary measure aims to prevent overcrowding and potential health risks.

Janmashtami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, will be observed on August 26 in Mathura's major temples and on the night of August 27 at Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan. The advisory was issued following the death of an elderly devotee from suffocation after 'aarti' on August 18. Two years ago, on Janmashtami night, two women devotees also died due to overcrowding-related suffocation during Mangala Aarti Darshan.

Temple officials Munish Sharma and Umesh Saraswat encouraged devotees to avoid bringing children, elderly people, and those with illnesses during peak hours. They also recommended wearing comfortable footwear, as entry and exit gates are separate. Once exited, it will not be feasible to retrieve shoes and slippers left behind. Necessary medications and medical precautions were also advised for those planning to visit.

(With inputs from agencies.)