Temple elephant runs amok in Tirumala

A six-year old elephant Avanija, of Lord Venkareshwara temple at Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh, ran amok creating panic among the huge gathering of devotees on Saturday late evening.

The incident took place just prior to the young elephant was to take part in a religious procession of temple deities.

Two persons were injured during the incident and suffered minor injuries. They are being treated at the Ashwini Hospital here.

According to reports, when the huge gate leading to the concourse of the temple was opened, it created a loud noise that disturbed the elephant, which was further complicated by the din and commotion of the devotees.

At this, the jumbo raced towards the pilgrims who were waiting for the darshan of the deities resulting in panic among them.

The pilgrims blamed the temple authorities for the incident by contending on occasions like Brahmotsavam proper precautions should have been taken.

"The Tirumala Tirupati Devashanam (TTD) authorities ought to have taken proper precautionary measures and ensure safety of pilgrims. Earlier also there was a similar instance. This has been our submission," said Mahadev, a devotee.

The mahout managed to bring the elephant under control almost immediately.