Devotee from Cuttack Dies After Falling Ill During Bahuda Yatra in Puri

Bhubaneswar: A 57-year-old devotee from Cuttack lost his life after reportedly falling ill while participating in the Bahuda Yatra in Puri on Friday.

The deceased, identified as Abhiram Das, was pulling Devi Subhadra’s Darpadalan chariot when he suddenly experienced breathing difficulties and collapsed amid the huge gathering of devotees on the Grand Road (Bada Danda).

Devotees present at the spot, along with Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, immediately shifted him to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. However, doctors declared him dead upon arrival.

According to police, the preliminary cause of death appears to be suffocation triggered by the heavy crowd during the procession. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and his family has been informed about the incident.

Meanwhile, several other devotees also reported health issues during the festival and were admitted to hospitals for treatment. Their condition is stated to be stable.

With Abhiram Das’s death, the toll during this year’s Rath Yatra festivities has risen to three. Earlier, two devotees had died after allegedly suffering suffocation while pulling the chariots on Sri Gundicha Day.

In view of the large turnout of pilgrims, authorities have advised devotees to remain hydrated, avoid overcrowded areas wherever possible, and seek immediate medical assistance if they experience breathing problems or any signs of discomfort during the festivities.