Four students tragically lost their lives and 60 others sustained injuries during a stampede at a music concert held at Cochin University in Kerala. The concert was headlined by singer Nikhita Gandhi, who expressed her devastation and heartbreak over the incident. In an Instagram story, she stated, “Heartbroken & devastated by what took place this evening in Kochi. Such an unfortunate incident took place before I could even leave for the venue for the performance.” She extended her prayers to the affected students’ families.
Nikhita Gandhi is a renowned singer known for her hit songs like “Burj Khalifa,” “Qaafirana,” and “Najaa.” She has also lent her voice to several songs in Salman Khan’s latest film, “Tiger 3.”
According to officials, the stampede occurred just moments before Nikhita was scheduled to perform in the open-air auditorium of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) near Kochi. Entry to the concert was restricted to pass holders, but the situation turned chaotic when it started raining. People waiting outside hurried into the auditorium for shelter, leading to a stampede, and some students slipped and fell.
ADGP MR Ajith Kumar explained, “It was an annual festival, and from the brochure, we understood that it was held from November 24 to November 26. The musical event was organized in an auditorium with a capacity of 1,000 to 1,500 people. It was partially filled. But when the rains lashed suddenly, the students rushed through the stairs, leading to the tragedy.”
Tragically, four students, including two boys and two girls, lost their lives in the stampede. Over 60 others are currently receiving treatment at Kalamassery Medical College Hospital and nearby healthcare facilities, according to State Health Minister Veena George.
