At least six people were killed in a devastating fire at a hotel building in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India. Several others were seriously injured due to burns and smoke inhalation.

The tragic incident occurred around 4:00 AM on Monday (August 17) at a hotel named "Bideshini," located directly in front of the Tarapith Temple in the district. Indian media outlets India Today and Anandabazar Patrika confirmed these details.

All the victims were pilgrims who had come to offer prayers at the Tarapith Temple during the month of Sravana. Most of the hotel guests and their children were asleep at the time of the incident.

Preliminary estimates suggest the fire originated from an electrical short circuit on the ground floor of the hotel, which then rapidly spread to the upper floors.

As thick smoke plunged the entire building into darkness, many occupants became trapped inside various rooms, unable to find a way out.

Hotel owner Kalyan Paul stated that night-duty security guards cut off the electricity supply immediately upon noticing the fire and attempted to extinguish it using fire extinguishers.

However, the flames quickly spiraled out of control, and the entire five-story building was engulfed in toxic smoke.

Upon receiving the report, two units of the fire service promptly arrived at the scene, brought the fire under control, and launched rescue operations.

The injured and affected individuals were rescued and admitted to Rampurhat Medical College and Hospital.

Police and fire rescue teams are continuing their rescue operations. The identities of those killed in the fire have not yet been confirmed.