The Uphaar Cinema fire occurred in Green Park, Delhi, during a popular film screening, drawing a large crowd to the venue. The incident unfolded when an electrical short circuit ignited a fire, quickly spreading through the premises. Chaos ensued as people attempted to escape; many were trapped inside the building, unable to find a safe exit. The cinema's design contributed to the rapid spread of smoke and flames, leading to stampedes and significant casualties. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but the delay in safety measures and the panic among patrons led to an overwhelming situation.

As the fire raged, eyewitness accounts revealed scenes of desperation, with individuals making frantic attempts to save loved ones. The tragedy not only drew immediate local attention but also sparked nationwide discussions surrounding fire safety laws and regulatory oversight in public establishments. Critics pointed out the failures in adherence to existing safety codes and called for reforms to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

In the aftermath, public outrage was palpable, with families of victims demanding justice and accountability. The incident prompted lawsuits against the cinema owners and questions about government oversight. Many politicians and activists rallied for more stringent safety regulations, emphasizing the need for proper inspections and the enforcement of safety standards across all entertainment venues. The tragedy served as a wake-up call regarding public safety and emergency preparedness in India, influencing policy changes in subsequent years.