Huskur Jatre 2025: Heavy Rain, Strong Winds Wreaks Havoc at Huskur Madduramma Fair, Chariot Collapse Kills Two

The annual Huskur Jatre, held at the Madduramma Devi Temple in Huskuru, Anekal taluk faced an unexpected turn of events as the tallest chariot collapsed due to heavy rain and strong winds. The incident occurred on the second day of the festival, leaving devotees in shock. According to reports, two people lost their lives during the prestigious Huskur Madduramma fair in Anekal taluk on Saturday evening. Police confirmed that two others sustained serious injuries and have been hospitalised.

The deceased have been identified as Rohit (26) from Hosur, Tamil Nadu, and Jyoti (14) from Kengeri, Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Rakesh from Lakkasandra and another woman suffered severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment, police added.

Huskur Jatre, renowned for its grand pagoda-style chariots, locally known as Kurjus, attracts thousands of devotees from across the country. The 2025 edition of the festival, which began on March 20 and is set to conclude on March 23, saw a major disruption as a severe storm struck the region.

Eyewitnesses reported that the strong winds, accompanied by heavy downpour, caused the massive chariot to sway dangerously before toppling over. Thankfully, no casualties or injuries have been reported. However, the chariot, an integral part of the centuries-old tradition, suffered significant damage. The video of the incident has gone viral on social media, with devotees expressing their shock and concern over the unexpected mishap.

Huskur Jatre is not just a religious event but also a major cultural and agrarian festival with a history spanning over 500 years. The festival is traditionally held from the last Thursday to Sunday in the Phalgun month (March-April). It was originally known for its massive cattle fair, where farmers from surrounding regions gathered to trade bulls, cows, and other livestock. A special highlight of the event is the display of giant bulls, a tradition that continues to draw large crowds.

At its peak, nearly a hundred chariots would take part in the celebrations, but due to modern infrastructural constraints-particularly the presence of a railway electric line-the number of chariots has dwindled to just three or four. The railway line has made it impossible for villagers from surrounding areas to transport their towering chariots to the temple, significantly altering the scale of the festival.

Madduramma Devi, the presiding deity of the festival, is believed to be a powerful form of Goddess Shakti, and devotees offer prayers seeking protection from diseases like pox and cholera. The faithful believe that the goddess had once miraculously ended an epidemic in the early 20th century.