NEW DELHI – A tragic stampede occurred during a rally for a well-known actor and political figure in Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India, resulting in the deaths of at least 36 individuals and injuries to 40 more, as reported by the state’s health minister late on Saturday.

Ma Subramanian informed The Associated Press that the individuals who lost their lives had already passed away upon arrival at the hospital, while those injured were in stable condition. Among the deceased were eight children, he remarked.

The gathering, which drew a crowd said to number in the tens of thousands, featured an address from Vijay, a prominent actor-turned-politician from Tamil Nadu, held in the Karur district.

According to reports from Indian media, citing local authorities, the frenzy began as Vijay engaged with the crowd. Supporters, eager to approach his bus, inadvertently caused the stampede. Those attending the event braved extremely high temperatures, with Vijay arriving much later than expected, the officials noted.

“There was indiscipline” at the rally, Subramanian said, adding that an investigation had been ordered.

As reported by the Press Trust of India, around 30 individuals fainted as Vijay addressed the crowd from his campaign vehicle and were promptly taken to nearby hospitals via ambulances. Vijay paused his speech when it became evident that attendees were collapsing and being evacuated, but resumed his address once those affected were moved.

However, he ended his speech shortly after sensing an abnormal situation in a section of the huge gathering, the news agency said.

Hours after the accident, Vijay offered his condolences.

“My heart is shattered,” he posted on X. “I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the “unfortunate incident” was “deeply saddening.”

“My heart goes out to the families who have lost their dear ones. I extend my strength to them in these challenging times and wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured,” he expressed through social media.

In southern Indian states, particularly Tamil Nadu, some film stars have larger than life status, rooted in the ancient Tamil culture of hero worship and image worship. Many have become politicians and some have even been given divine status.

In 2024, Vijay retired from acting and launched his own political party. It was unclear whether he plans to run for office in Tamil Nadu state.

Stampedes are relatively common in India when large crowds gather. In January, at least 30 people were killed as tens of thousands of Hindus rushed to bathe in a sacred river during the Maha Kumbh festival, the world’s largest religious gathering.