Rishab Shetty Calls Karur Stampede a "Collective Mistake" After 41 Killed

In the wake of the tragic Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives last month, acclaimed filmmaker and actor Rishab Shetty has spoken out about the incident, calling it a "collective mistake." The stampede occurred during a rally held by actor-politician Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on September 27, 2025.

Shetty, who recently celebrated the success of his film "Kantara: Chapter 1," expressed his regret over the loss of lives in the Karur tragedy. He explained that such incidents often arise from a combination of factors rather than a single cause, saying, "It was a collective mistake..." Shetty acknowledged the challenges faced by authorities and organizers in controlling large crowds, noting that it's easy to blame the police or government, but they also have a responsibility to ensure safety.

The filmmaker emphasized the importance of learning from such incidents and taking precautions to prevent future tragedies. He stated, "We should take precautions. But who will control a mob? We can easily blame the police or government; they also have a responsibility. But sometimes they will also have trouble (controlling the crowd)."

Vijay, the actor-politician at the center of the Karur rally, has offered compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the families of those who died and Rs 2 lakh for each injured person. He has also spoken to the affected individuals via video call, offering his condolences.

Rishab Shetty's remarks come as a reminder of the need for stricter safety protocols at public events, especially those attracting large numbers of fans. The Karur stampede has sparked discussions on the responsibility of organizers, authorities, and the public in ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees.