📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Bijay chaurasia
Religion
Ancient Bhagwati Temple in Uttarakhand Ravaged by Fire During Navratri
✍️ Rediff
🗓 16 Oct 2026, 07:36 PM
👁 12
A fire broke out at the historic Bhagwati temple in Uttarakhand during Navratri celebrations, leaving the structure gutted.
The centuries‑old Bhagwati temple in Uttarakhand caught fire amid the Navratri festivities, resulting in the complete destruction of its interior. Firefighters arrived at the scene shortly after the blaze was reported and worked to contain the flames, but the structure was gutted before they could extinguish it fully.
Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, while the temple’s management is assessing the extent of the damage. No reports of injuries have emerged, and the focus now shifts to preserving what remains of the historic shrine.
The incident has sparked concern among devotees and heritage conservationists, who fear the loss of cultural and religious heritage. Officials have indicated that restoration plans will be considered once the investigation concludes.
The fire occurred during a period of heightened religious activity, as Navratri draws large crowds to temples across the state. Security and safety measures are being reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, while the temple’s management is assessing the extent of the damage. No reports of injuries have emerged, and the focus now shifts to preserving what remains of the historic shrine.
The incident has sparked concern among devotees and heritage conservationists, who fear the loss of cultural and religious heritage. Officials have indicated that restoration plans will be considered once the investigation concludes.
The fire occurred during a period of heightened religious activity, as Navratri draws large crowds to temples across the state. Security and safety measures are being reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.