NTR fan dies in audio release stampede

Hyderabad: The unprecedented and overwhelming response to the audio launch of NTR's much anticipated film 'Baadshah' turned tragic when one of the actor's fans died in a stampede at the event. The audio release was held on Sunday night at Ramanaidu Cine Village, Nanakramguda, on the outskirts of Hyderabad amidst tight police security. Scramble for a glimpse of lakhs of fans' favourite hero at the audio release function led to the mishap in which 23-year-old Raju, native of Ursu Gutta of Warangal district, lost his life. According to eye-witnesses, around 10,000 people thronged the venue despite the access was restricted to invitees resulting in the crush. Despite the tragedy, event organisers went ahead with the audio release without observing even a minute's silence or paying any tribute to Raju. The indifference shown by the organizers has infuriated some people. TRS MP Vijayashanthi, who came to know about the stampede death through TV channels, released a statement in New Delhi, stating that the party won't allow the film to be screened in the Telangana region. Later, NTR, speaking at the audio release, said: "I'm deeply saddened by the incident which took away life of my 'brother' Raju. I'm always disappointed that I don't have a sibling but in a respite God gave me innumerable siblings in the form of you (fans). I'm at loss for words that I lost one of my brothers today. Please reach your home safely. Your parents have been waiting for you. I'll also wait for you to reach safe. I can't bear if something wrong happens to anyone. I was told the audio release would close early." He also apologized for his fan's death. Embracing one of the members of the bereaved family, Rambabu, who was also at the audio launch, an emotional and disturbed NTR said in a cracking voice, "I share a close equation with Raju's family. I'll stand by his family. I may not be able to replace the loss suffered by Raju's mother but I will ensure all help to the bereaved family." Producer Bandla Ganesh announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the victim's family. Sandeep Atreysa