Pune: Bee Attack On Shivneri Fort Leaves 47 Injured Amid Shiv Jayanti Preparations; Treatment Underway

Junnar, 17th March 2025: A shocking bee attack at Shivneri Fort on Sunday (16th March) left 47 people injured, including several devotees of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and tourists. The incident occurred a day before the traditional celebration of Shiv Jayanti, which falls on Monday (17th March) as per the Hindu calendar. The attack took place around 9 am near the pathway leading to the Shivai Devi temple.

According to witnesses, the bees became aggressive after some tourists allegedly threw stones at their hive, agitating them. Additionally, the smoke from torches carried by devotees transporting the sacred Shivjyot may have disturbed the bees, leading to a frenzied attack.

Rescue teams, including personnel from the forest department, the archaeology department, and the Junnar Rescue Team, quickly responded to the situation. The injured were rushed to Chhatrapati Shivaji Rural Hospital in Junnar, where medical officer Dr. Zahid Hasan provided treatment. Among the 47 injured, two individuals sustained severe injuries.

The incident occurred during a cleanliness drive organized by MP Nilesh Lanke’s foundation. Lanke himself was present at the fort and later visited the hospital to check on the injured. Tourists from various places, including Ghatkopar, Rahuri, Ratnagiri, Raigad, Khadakwasla, Dhule, Thane, and Mumbai, were among those affected.

Upon receiving news of the attack, Forest Range Officer Pradeep Chavan, along with his team, and Archaeology Department official Gokul Dabhade, arrived at the scene to assist the injured.

Experts note that bees are highly sensitive to strong odors such as incense, perfumes, and cosmetics, which can attract them. Other common reasons for bee aggression include:

– Loud noises near their hives
– Smoking or lighting fires near bee colonies
– Provocation by throwing objects at hives
– Using selfie sticks close to hives, disturbing their natural habitat