Catastrophic Water Tank Burst Disrupts ‘The India House’ Film Set, Injures Crew
4 min read
Hyderabad, June 12, 2025 – A devastating accident has rocked the sets of The India House, the maiden production venture of Telugu superstar Ram Charan, starring Nikhil Siddhartha. On Wednesday, a massive water tank burst during a shoot near Shamshabad, Telangana, causing widespread flooding and injuring several crew members, including an assistant cameraman who sustained severe injuries. The incident has raised serious questions about safety measures on film sets and left the production in disarray.
Background of the Incident
The India House, a period drama marking Ram Charan’s debut as a producer, is directed by newcomer Ram Vamsi Krishna and features Nikhil Siddhartha and veteran actor Anupam Kher in key roles. Announced in 2023 to coincide with the 140th birth anniversary of freedom fighter Veer Savarkar, the film has generated significant buzz for its patriotic narrative and high production values. Filming has been underway in and around Hyderabad, with elaborate sets constructed to recreate historical settings, including a sea backdrop for a pivotal scene.
The accident occurred during the filming of this sea sequence, when a large water tank, integral to creating the oceanic effect, unexpectedly gave way. The sudden deluge not only disrupted the shoot but also caused significant damage to equipment and sets, as captured in viral videos circulating online.
What Happened: A Breakdown of the Incident
- The Accident:
While shooting a scene on a custom-built set near Shamshabad, a water tank used to simulate a sea environment burst without warning. The resulting flood engulfed the set, sweeping away props, lighting equipment, and other materials. Crew members were caught off guard, leading to chaos as they scrambled to safety. - Injuries Reported:
Multiple crew members sustained injuries, with an assistant cameraman suffering severe trauma. Sources indicate that the force of the water and the collapse of nearby equipment contributed to the injuries. The exact number of affected individuals remains unconfirmed, but early reports suggest at least four to six crew members required medical attention. - Immediate Aftermath:
Videos shared on social media platforms, including X, show the extent of the devastation. Crew members can be seen wading through knee-deep water, attempting to salvage cameras, lights, and other gear. The set, meticulously designed to reflect a historical era, was left in ruins, with wooden structures and props floating in the floodwater. - Police and Official Response:
As of Thursday morning, Shamshabad police had not received an official complaint or report regarding the incident. It is unclear whether the production team has filed a formal statement. Additionally, there is no confirmation on whether lead actor Nikhil Siddhartha was present on set at the time of the accident.
Why This Matters
The incident has sparked widespread concern within the Telugu film industry and beyond, highlighting the risks associated with large-scale film productions. Water tanks and other heavy equipment are commonly used to create realistic environments, but their maintenance and safety protocols are now under scrutiny. Industry insiders are calling for stricter regulations and regular safety audits to prevent such accidents in the future.
“This is a wake-up call for all production houses,” said a senior technician who wished to remain anonymous. “We often prioritize budgets and timelines over safety, and incidents like this show the human cost of that oversight.”
Impact on The India House
The flooding has dealt a significant blow to the production of The India House. With key sets destroyed and equipment damaged, the film’s shooting schedule is likely to face delays. The financial implications could be substantial, given the high-profile nature of the project and its ambitious scope. Neither Ram Charan’s production team nor the film’s director has issued an official statement, but sources suggest that the crew is working to assess the damage and plan the next steps.
The accident also casts a shadow over Ram Charan’s first foray into production. Known for his blockbuster hits like RRR and Game Changer, Charan has been positioning The India House as a passion project with historical and cultural significance. The setback could test his resilience as a producer navigating the unpredictable challenges of filmmaking.
Safety in the Spotlight
The The India House incident is not an isolated case. In recent years, several film sets across India have reported accidents ranging from equipment malfunctions to structural collapses. In 2022, a similar incident occurred on a Tamil film set, where a poorly maintained scaffold injured three crew members. These recurring mishaps underscore the need for comprehensive safety guidelines tailored to the unique demands of film production.
Experts recommend the following measures to enhance set safety:
- Regular Equipment Inspections: Heavy machinery, including water tanks, should undergo routine checks by certified professionals.
- Crew Training: All crew members should be trained in emergency response protocols, including evacuation procedures.
- On-Set Safety Officers: Dedicated personnel should monitor compliance with safety standards during shoots.
- Insurance Coverage: Productions should ensure comprehensive insurance for crew members to cover medical expenses and lost wages in case of accidents.
What’s Next?
As the The India House team grapples with the aftermath, the industry and fans await updates on the condition of the injured crew members and the production’s future. The viral videos have amplified public interest, with many expressing solidarity with the affected workers on platforms like X. Hashtags such as #IndiaHouseAccident and #FilmSetSafety are trending, reflecting growing awareness of the issue.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the injured and rebuilding the damaged sets. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks behind the glitz and glamour of cinema, urging stakeholders to prioritize safety above all.
