Pune: Smoke Fills Balgandharva Rangmandir After AC Plant Explosion; No Injuries Reported
Shivajinagar, 3rd November 2025: A minor explosion in the air conditioning system at the iconic Balgandharva Rangmandir on Jangli Maharaj Road caused a brief scare on Sunday night after thick smoke filled the auditorium. Fortunately, no injuries or damage were reported as the incident occurred before the audience had entered for a Marathi commercial play scheduled at 9:30 pm.
According to sources, the explosion took place in the AC plant located near the balcony section of the auditorium, leading to a sudden burst of smoke. The alert staff quickly noticed the situation and took immediate steps to control it. The auditorium was evacuated and entry for the audience was temporarily halted until the smoke subsided.
“The staff acted promptly and managed to bring the situation under control. No major damage was caused,” an official at the venue said.
Once the air cleared and safety was ensured, the audience was allowed to enter the auditorium later than scheduled, and the play rehearsal resumed without further disruption.
When contacted, Balgandharva Rangmandir Manager Rajesh Kamthe was unavailable for comment.
The cause of the explosion in the air conditioning system is yet to be officially confirmed. However, sources said that a technical fault in the AC plant may have triggered the incident.
