A screening of the much-anticipated Prabhas-starrer 'The Raja Saab' turned into a scene of chaos and danger at a theatre in Telangana. Overzealous fans of the superstar ignited fireworks inside the auditorium, leading to a fire that sent patrons into a panic. The shocking incident, which occurred on January 10, 2026, was captured on video and has since gone viral across social media platforms.
Chaos Erupts in the Dark
The incident took place at the PVR Nexus Mall in Kukatpally, Hyderabad. During the film's screening, a group of Prabhas's ardent supporters decided to celebrate the actor's entry or a pivotal scene in a dangerously traditional manner. They lit powerful fireworks, known as 'rockets', right from their seats in the packed hall.
Video footage from the event shows bright sparks and flames shooting from the floor seats towards the ceiling and screen. Thick smoke quickly filled the darkened auditorium, obscuring visibility. The loud explosions and sudden fire caused immediate panic among the audience. People can be heard screaming and scrambling in the clip as the fireworks continue to erupt indoors, creating a significant safety hazard.
Immediate Aftermath and Response
Fortunately, the theatre's staff and security personnel acted swiftly to control the situation. The fire was brought under control before it could spread extensively or cause structural damage. Initial reports confirm that no serious injuries were reported, though many attendees suffered from shock and minor discomfort due to the smoke inhalation.
Local authorities were alerted about the reckless act. Such behavior constitutes a major violation of public safety norms and cinema hall regulations. The use of any pyrotechnics inside a closed public venue is strictly prohibited due to the extreme risk of fire and stampede. An investigation is likely to be initiated to identify the individuals responsible for this irresponsible act.
A Dangerous Trend in Fan Culture
This event highlights a persistent and perilous trend in the fan culture surrounding South Indian cinema, particularly with mega-stars like Prabhas. While enthusiasm is expected, it often crosses into dangerous territory. Common celebratory practices include:
- Cutting massive cakes shaped like film reels or stars.
- Pouring milk over giant cut-outs of the actor.
- Conducting elaborate aartis and prayers.
- The most hazardous of all: lighting firecrackers and fireworks inside or directly outside theatre premises.
The 'The Raja Saab' theatre fire incident is a stark reminder that such celebrations can have catastrophic consequences. A single spark in a crowded, enclosed space filled with flammable materials like seats and curtains could lead to a tragedy of immense proportions. It puts hundreds of lives at risk for the sake of a momentary display of fandom.
This is not the first time such an incident has been reported, but it serves as a critical wake-up call for theatre management, law enforcement, and fan clubs alike. There is a growing demand for stricter enforcement of safety codes during high-profile film releases and for fan clubs to promote responsible celebration that does not endanger public safety.
The release of Prabhas's 'The Raja Saab' has been a major event in the Telugu regional cinema landscape, drawing huge crowds. However, this episode in Hyderabad casts a shadow over the festivities, emphasizing that audience safety must be the paramount concern for everyone involved in the cinematic experience.
