Berhampur, June 30, 2026: A fire broke out during a Jatra (folk theatre) performance at Lanjia on the outskirts of Berhampur late Monday night after a sudden firecracker explosion triggered a blaze at the venue.
According to preliminary information, the incident occurred around 2:30 AM during a two-party Ramayan-based drama when firecrackers stored for the performance unexpectedly exploded. The blast led to a fire that quickly spread to nearby stage structures.
The stage staircase and several pieces of equipment were gutted in the incident. Panic briefly spread among organisers and spectators present at the venue, though no injuries or casualties have been reported.
Fire and Emergency Services personnel rushed to the spot immediately after receiving information and managed to extinguish the flames, preventing further damage to the pandal and surrounding areas.
Authorities are assessing the extent of the loss and are expected to investigate the circumstances that led to the explosion, including storage and use of firecrackers at the event site.
The incident has raised concerns over safety protocols at large public performances, particularly the use and handling of firecrackers during cultural programmes.
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