Singer Nikhita Gandhi conveyed her sorrow and condolences following a distressing stampede that occurred during her scheduled performance in Kochi. The incident, which resulted in the tragic deaths of four students and left numerous others injured at Cochin University’s annual festival, prompted an immediate investigation by the Kerala government.
The health minister, Veena George, confirmed the unfortunate turn of events, highlighting the chaotic situation during Nikhita Gandhi’s performance at CUSAT University in Kochi. Gandhi, visibly shaken by the incident, took to Instagram to share her sentiments. “Heartbroken and devastated by what took place this evening in Kochi. Such an unfortunate incident took place before I could even leave for the venue for the performance. No words are possibly enough to express this profound grief. My prayers go out to the families of the students,” she expressed, choosing to disable comments on her post to honor the gravity of the situation.
Probe Initiated After Fatal Stampede at Nikhita Gandhi’s Kochi Show
Contrary to initial reports linking the stampede to Nikhita Gandhi’s musical performance, authorities clarified that the mishap occurred before the singer commenced her show.
Preliminary accounts of the tragedy described a sudden downpour interrupting the musical event, prompting attendees to seek shelter, leading to chaos. Eyewitnesses emphasized that access to the event was restricted to ticket holders, although local residents were also present outside the auditorium during the performance.
In response to the incident, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened an emergency meeting, expressing condolences for the students’ untimely demise. As a mark of respect, Vijayan canceled all cultural and art events associated with the ongoing Nava Kerala Sadas program in the northern district, further deploying ministers to coordinate measures at the campus in Kalamassery.
The community mourns the tragic loss of young lives, and investigations are ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident.