The overwhelming success of Allu Arjun’s film Pushpa 2: The Rule, which has grossed over Rs 1,500 crore at the box office, has been overshadowed by a tragic incident that has left a young boy, nine-year-old Sri Tej, battling severe neurological trauma.
For over three months, he has remained in a hospital bed, fighting for his life following a catastrophic stampede that occurred during the film’s premiere in Hyderabad.
The tragic event unfolded on December 4, 2024, at Sandhya 70MM Theatre, RTC X Roads, Hyderabad, where an uncontrolled rush of excited fans led to a deadly stampede. Among the victims was Tej’s 39-year-old mother, Revathi, who tragically lost her life in the chaos.
The once vibrant and energetic child, who had attended the premiere with his parents and younger sister, had eagerly anticipated the moment he could watch his favourite star, Allu Arjun, on the big screen. However, the joyous occasion turned into a horrifying nightmare that irrevocably changed the course of his life.
Caught in the stampede, Tej suffered critical brain injuries due to oxygen deprivation. The severity of his condition was apparent from the outset, as he was immediately placed in intensive care, slipping into a coma and becoming dependent on ventilator support.
Over the following weeks, he began exhibiting minor signs of improvement, such as opening his eyes and reacting to external stimuli. However, doctors at KIMS Cuddles, Secunderabad, in their latest statement on Monday, reported that while his vital parameters have stabilised, his cognitive functions remain significantly impaired.
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He has yet to recognise his family members or respond to basic verbal commands, indicating substantial neurological damage.
In addition to cognitive impairment, Tej continues to suffer from intermittent dystonia, a neurological disorder characterised by involuntary muscle movements, particularly affecting his upper body.
To ensure he receives proper nutrition, medical professionals recently performed an Endoscopic Gastrostomy, a procedure that allows for direct feeding through a tube inserted into his stomach. Despite these interventions, his road to recovery remains uncertain, with doctors emphasising the need for long-term physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
The devastating impact of the tragedy extends beyond Tej’s medical struggles. His father and younger sister, now bereft of their loving wife and mother, are grappling with immeasurable grief and uncertainty. The emotional and financial toll has been overwhelming, as they attempt to navigate life in the wake of such an unimaginable loss.
While the child’s condition remains fragile, his family clings to hope, supported by medical professionals and well-wishers who are dedicated to aiding his recovery.
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Following the incident, Hyderabad police launched an investigation and subsequently arrested officials of Sandhya Theatre, along with actor Allu Arjun, on charges of negligence in crowd control.
Legal proceedings have been initiated under multiple sections, sparking widespread discussions about event safety protocols and the accountability of organisers and public figures in ensuring the well-being of attendees at large-scale gatherings.
In an effort to provide some relief to the grieving family, Allu Arjun and the production team behind Pushpa 2 have extended financial assistance amounting to Rs 2 crore. Additionally, the government has pledged full support for Tej’s ongoing medical treatment, assuring that all necessary resources will be made available to facilitate his recovery.
The tragedy has ignited a broader debate on the responsibilities of event organisers and celebrities in preventing such disasters, underscoring the need for stricter safety measures at mass gatherings to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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