Lion Sparks Panic Among Devotees at Palitana Jain Temple in Gujarat

Devotees climbing the 3,800 steps of the famous Palitana Jain Temple in Gujarat were thrown into panic when a lion suddenly appeared on the temple steps.

The incident occurred on the Shatrunjaya hills, a renowned pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees from across the world. As pilgrims slowly ascended the steep stone steps, a lion emerged from the surrounding bushes and began pacing on the main staircase, causing chaos among the crowd. Despite the commotion, some devotees continued chanting prayers, showcasing their faith even in the face of danger.

The 11th-century temple complex on Shatrunjaya hills comprises over 3,000 Jain temples, constructed over a span of 900 years. Every year, more than 500,000 pilgrims undertake the strenuous climb to seek blessings at this sacred site.

A video of the event, which has gone viral on social media, shows devotees and Jain monks fleeing in fear while others try to remain calm. Some women in the crowd were seen urging others to stay composed as the lion moved along the staircase.

Forest officials confirmed the authenticity of the video and emphasized that the Shatrunjaya hills lie within a natural wildlife habitat. Lions often use these paths to move between forested areas. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident. Authorities temporarily restricted pilgrim movement in the area and intensified patrolling. Visitors were advised to remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from trying to film or provoke the animal.

This is not an isolated occurrence. In recent months, lions have frequently been spotted in the Shatrunjaya area. Officials estimate that 20–25 lions inhabit the region, often venturing near the temple and surrounding foothills. The expansion of Asian lions beyond Gir’s dense forests is attributed to favorable terrain, availability of water, and prey, resulting in sightings near villages, highways, and pilgrimage routes.