Fan frenzy turns fatal: A dark side of celebrity worship

Recent tragic incidents highlight the dark side of excessive fan enthusiasm in the South Indian film industry. A 19-year-old Ajith Kumar fan died after falling from a tanker lorry during ‘Thunivu’ celebrations. A stampede at an Allu Arjun ‘Pushpa 2’ screening claimed a woman’s life, prompting an apology from the star. Two Suriya fans were electrocuted while erecting a birthday banner. In 2014, a Vijay fan died after falling from a flex board, leading the actor to urge fans to prioritize safety.