Sacred Procession Turns to Panic as Elephants Go on Rampage During Ahmedabad's Rath Yatra

Suspense crime, Digital Desk : A joyous and sacred procession turned into a scene of terrifying chaos in Ahmedabad during the 147th Jagannath Rath Yatra when three elephants, part of the celebration, suddenly went on a rampage. The incident, captured in dramatic videos that have since gone viral, forced terrified devotees and onlookers to scramble for safety.The frightening moment unfolded as the massive procession made its way through the city's Shahpur Darwaza area. For reasons that are still unclear, three decorated elephants broke free and began running erratically through the crowded streets. Videos show people screaming and fleeing in panic as the large animals charge past, toppling carts and creating a stampede-like situation.<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">VIDEO | Gujarat: Three elephants go out of control during Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad.<br><br>(Source: Third Party)<br><br>(Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/HYWt1hC4sX">pic.twitter.com/HYWt1hC4sX</a></p>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1938465803462185300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Amid the mayhem, at least one person, a 60-year-old man, sustained injuries and was rushed for medical attention. Elephant handlers, known as mahouts, worked frantically alongside police to regain control of the distressed animals. After several tense minutes, they successfully calmed the elephants and brought the situation under control.The Rath Yatra is one of Ahmedabad's most significant annual religious events, drawing massive crowds who come to catch a glimpse of the chariots carrying the deities Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra.Despite the shocking disruption, organizers confirmed that after a brief halt to manage the situation, the procession resumed its traditional journey. The incident, however, has sparked a debate online about the safety and ethics of using animals in such large and crowded public processions.