Sandhya Theatre Stampede Incident: Sritej Discharged from Hospital

Sritej, the young boy who was critically injured during a stampede at the premiere show of the film Pushpa 2 at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad last December, has been discharged from the hospital after nearly five months of intensive medical treatment.

He had been receiving care at KIMS Hospital in Secunderabad. As his health condition showed signs of stability, doctors recommended discharging him from hospital care and shifting him to a rehabilitation centre for continued recovery. The tragic incident, which occurred during a promotional event for Pushpa 2, had also claimed the life of Sritej’s mother, Revathi.

Sritej underwent treatment at KIMS for a total of four months and 25 days. According to his father, Bhaskar, the child was moved from the Intensive Care Unit to a general ward around 15 days ago. Doctors confirmed that Sritej’s condition is now stable and free of infections. However, they advised physiotherapy and ongoing care at a rehabilitation facility. They further stated that he could return home after receiving physiotherapy at the centre for approximately 15 days.

Commenting on Sritej’s current condition, Bhaskar said, “The boy has now opened his eyes. We are providing him liquid nutrition through a feeding tube. However, his brain has not yet fully recovered. He is unable to recognize any of us.” Bhaskar also explained that the risk of infection increases with prolonged hospital stays, and that doctors had indicated rehabilitation could aid in recovery. He emphasized the necessity of lifelong care for Sritej.

Bhaskar expressed his gratitude to all those who supported the family during the ordeal. “The Pushpa 2 film team, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and the government extended significant help. From the second day of Sritej’s admission, they stood by us. The KIMS management and doctors have never raised any issues regarding treatment expenses. Even at the time of discharge, they did not trouble us,” Bhaskar stated.

Reflecting on their family’s emotional struggle, Bhaskar said, “Sritej’s sister keeps asking, ‘Where is mother?’ We tell her she has gone to the village. Even though the girl is speaking, Sritej does not respond. We are grateful to every person who supported us.” Family members and well-wishers continue to hope for Sritej’s full recovery.