Video: Gujarat man burnt to death after stunt goes wrong in Shivratri procession

The performer had allegedly poured petrol and set himself ablaze as part of the act, but the flames spread uncontrollably, triggering panic and a stampede-like situation.

A festive Maha Shivratri procession in Gujarat’s Dahod district turned into a scene of horror after a fire stunt during the Shiv Yatra went tragically wrong, leading to the death of a devotee and triggering panic among hundreds of onlookers.

The incident occurred during the Garbada Shiv Yatra organised on the occasion of Maha Shivratri. According to local reports, a performer participating in the religious procession allegedly poured petrol on himself as part of a daredevil act and set himself on fire to showcase a stunt. However, the flames spread beyond control within moments.

Ramanbhai Rathod, who was present near the performer, was caught in the blaze. Eyewitnesses said the fire flared up suddenly, giving little time for people standing close by to react.

Videos of the incident, which have since gone viral on social media, show chaos breaking out at the site as the fire intensifies. Spectators can be seen recording the stunt on their mobile phones moments before panic spreads through the crowd.

Amid the confusion, Rathod sustained severe burn injuries. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital in Dahod for emergency treatment, but he succumbed during treatment due to the extent of burns suffered.

The incident has left residents of Garbada and nearby areas in shock. Many questioned how such a high-risk stunt was allowed during a crowded religious event and whether adequate safety measures were in place.