India, Nov. 2 -- At least nine people, including a teenager, were killed and three others were critically injured in a stampede at a temple in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday amid a rush of devotees, officials aware of the matter said.

The incident occurred around 11.45am at the two-storey Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Srikakulam district when thousands had gathered on the occasion of "Ekadashi", considered an auspicious day in the "Karthika" month for devotees.

"A total of nine people died in the stampede, seven on the spot and two others while undergoing treatment at the Palasa community health centre. Fifteen others are being treated at the same facility, and the condition of three is critical," the state government said in an official...