Tamil Nadu Chariot Collapse: At least seven people were injured in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, when a 60-foot temple chariot collapsed during the Mayana Kollai festival last night (February 16). Thousands of devotees had gathered to enjoy the festivities, but celebrations turned chaotic after the collapse. Police, rescue teams, and locals rushed to assist those caught in the accident. The situation is now under control.
As seen in videos, the remains of the chariot lay scattered across the road, affecting traffic in the area.
Tamil Nadu is currently celebrating Mayana Kollai festival, when they carry out a procession of a grand chariot or palanquin with the idol of the Goddess moves through the streets toward a local graveyard or crematorium. The festival takes place the day after Shivaratri, with varying legends surrounding its origins. Some say it marks Goddess Parvathi’s victory over the asuran sculpted at the graveyard, while others believe it commemorates her saving Lord Shiva from a curse by Goddess Saraswati.
Also Read: Man in Saree Caught After Dramatic Chase for Slitting Sister-in-Law’s Throat
“Food items offered are usually flung towards the goddess as part of the ritual called ‘Kollai,’” said S. Abirami, a local resident. “It is believed that whatever devotees pray for during Mayana Kollai will be fulfilled by the next year’s festival.” Many participants wore masks of the goddess and danced at the festival site, with the Anna Bridge overlooking the area packed with spectators.
Greater Height, Greater Risk
The collapse may have been caused by the sheer weight of the decorated wood and metal, which can cause the central axle to snap or the wheels to buckle, especially if the chariot has not been maintained during the off-season. Due to rising competition, the chariots often reaches heights of 60 to over 100 feet. These structures are often narrow at the base but heavily decorated at the top, making them inherently unstable.
