Singapore—The Hindu Endowments Board announced via its Facebook page on Tuesday, October 22, that a devotee had fallen into a fire pit while in the process of fulfilling his vows.
Fortunately, the man who had fallen into the fire pit was immediately rushed to Singapore General Hospital and was in stable condition, as of the Facebook post, which had been jointly issued by Sri Mariamman Temple as well as the endowments board.
The two people who had also sustained injuries in helping the man were also in recovery, according to the post.
Here is the post in full:
Statement from Hindu Endowments Board and Sri Mariamman Temple
A devotee tripped and fell in the firepit while fulfilling his vows. Our rescuers flung into action to carry him out and our medical team rushed him to SGH. Sri Mariamman Temple management has visited him at the hospital. He is in stable condition. We will continue to monitor his progress. Our prayers are with him and his family. Two of our rescuers also sustained injuries during the incident and are recovering well.
We wish to thank all who provided much-needed support to ensure the devotee received medical attention as soon as possible.
Sri Mariamman Temple and Hindu Endowments Board
https://www.facebook.com/hinduendowmentsboard/posts/1699892036870347
A report from The Straits Times (ST) says that the incident occurred on Sunday, October 20, and that several rescuers, as many as seven, rushed to the man’s aid.
One netizen, who had been a witness to the accident, commended the organising committee for the precautions it had put in place lately even before the incident occurred, which made the speedy rescue possible. She also lauded the volunteers for their speedy action in response to the incident.
Uma Devi Arumugam wrote, “Kudos to the Committee of the Firewalking. I was there personally and saw the hardwork contributed by them. Selflessly helping each devotee fulfill their vows by walking on the firepit more than once at times. Even before the mishap happened, precautions were taken to escort the devotee. Due to the precautions the devotee was pulled out quickly from the firepit and was attended. God bless all, whom helped selflessly to make this event as safe as possible.
For those who are quick to comment negatively, your Volunteerism next year for such event would be greatly appreciated.”
Many other netizens commended the brave volunteers for coming to the injured man’s rescue. The victim received warm well-wishes for a speedy recovery as well.
/TISG
Read also: Opening of multi-religious temple in May will enhance Singapore’s diversity
Opening of multi-religious temple in May will enhance Singapore’s diversity