Holi turns tragic in Odisha as nine drowned during celebrations

What was meant to be a day of joy and celebration turned tragic in Odisha as several drowning incidents were reported on Wednesday from different parts of the state during Holi festivities. 

At least nine people lost their lives while another person was reported missing after being swept away by strong currents. The incidents mostly occurred when people went to rivers and canals to bathe after playing with colours.

Two Deaths Reported in Jajpur

In Jajpur district, two separate incidents claimed two lives. A minor drowned in the Brahmani River at Digambarpur while bathing. In another incident under the Jajpur Road police station limits, a youth drowned in the Kharasrota river while bathing with friends following Holi celebrations.

Minor Drowns Near Badamba Bridge

Another tragic incident was reported near the Cuttack's Badamba T-bridge, where a minor drowned while bathing after playing Holi. The sudden mishap left local residents shocked as the festival atmosphere quickly turned into grief.

Youth Dies in Canal in Bhubaneswar

In another incident, a youth lost his life after drowning in the Puri Main Canal near Madhuban village under Barang police station limits. The incident occurred when he was reportedly bathing in the canal.

Also Read: Minor boy drowns while taking bath after Holi celebrations in Odisha’s Cuttack

Other Districts Report Similar Incidents

Two more deaths related to Holi mishaps were reported from Champua in Keonjhar district and Jagatsinghpur district, adding to the rising number of tragic incidents during the festival.

One Youth Still Missing

Meanwhile, in Kendrapara district’s Aul area, a youth went missing after being swept away by the strong current of the Kharasrota river. Search efforts are underway to trace him.

Celebration Overshadowed by Grief

The festival of colours ended in sorrow for several families across Odisha, as celebrations were overshadowed by a series of tragic incidents.