Pushpa 2 Stampede: Child Suffers Brain Damage, Hyderabad Police Meet Family Amid Legal Proceedings Against Allu Arjun

An eight-year-old boy, Sri Tej, sustained severe brain damage during the stampede at Sandhya Theatre on the premiere night of Pushpa 2. The incident, which occurred amid chaotic scenes, also claimed the life of the boy’s mother. The young survivor remains hospitalised, with doctors warning of a prolonged recovery period.

Telangana Health Secretary Christina Z. Chongthu and Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand visited the boy at the hospital to assess his condition. Speaking to the media, Commissioner Anand confirmed the extent of the child’s injuries, stating that brain damage resulted from oxygen deprivation during the stampede.

“The recovery will be a lengthy process, as the brain needs time to regain its capacity to process signals. Currently, the boy is on ventilator support,” he explained.

Actor Allu Arjun, whose name has been linked to the tragic event, addressed the situation on social media. He expressed concern for the child but clarified why he has not yet visited the family. “I am deeply troubled by the condition of young Sri Tej, who is under continuous medical care. Legal counsel has advised against visiting him or his family due to ongoing legal proceedings. My prayers are with them, and I am committed to ensuring their medical and personal needs are met. I hope to meet them soon and wish for his speedy recovery,” Allu Arjun wrote.

Following the stampede, police registered a case against Allu Arjun, citing his role in the promotion of the event, which led to overcrowding and mismanagement. Authorities arrested the actor, and he was subsequently placed in judicial custody for 14 days. He was granted interim bail for four weeks on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 but had to spend a night in jail due to delays in the completion of legal formalities.

Reports indicate that Telangana police are preparing to approach the Supreme Court to challenge the interim bail granted to the actor.