People Suffocate & Faint at Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri, Rushed to Hospital
The revered Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of the most iconic and sacred festivals in Hinduism, has once again gained attention for all the wrong reasons. Amidst the grandeur and celebrations, some devotees unfortunately fell victim to the sweltering heat and humidity, leading to cases of suffocation and fainting. The incident took place in Puri, Odisha, where the yatra was being held.
According to reports, several devotees, including elderly and children, felt suffocated and lost consciousness due to the extreme humidity and heat. The situation was so dire that the authorities had to rush them to the hospital for immediate medical attention.
The news was confirmed by state Minister Mukesh Mahaling, who stated that due to the high humidity, one or two devotees collapsed. The rescue teams quickly sprang into action, taking the affected devotees to the hospital immediately.
A video of the incident showed ambulances reaching the spot, with devotees making way for them to pass through. The visuals were a stark contrast to the jubilant atmosphere of the festival, which is normally characterized by vibrant colors, music, and chanting.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a 14-day festival that attracts millions of devotees from across the world. During this period, three chariots, namely the Nandighosa, Taladhvaja, and Padmabhog, are pulled through the streets of Puri, carrying the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balaram, and Goddess Subhadra.
While the festival is a testament to the devotion and faith of the devotees, it also raises concerns about the safety and well-being of the participants. The extreme heat and humidity during this time of the year can take a toll on even the most enthusiastic devotees.
In recent years, there have been several instances of devotees falling ill or getting injured during the yatra. While the authorities have taken various measures to ensure the safety of the devotees, incidents like these serve as a reminder of the need for more stringent arrangements to prevent such mishaps.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is not only an important religious event but also a significant tourist attraction. The festival draws visitors from across the globe, who come to witness the grandeur and pageantry of the yatra.
The incident has sent shockwaves among the devotees and the authorities, who are now reviewing the arrangements to prevent such incidents in the future. Meanwhile, the affected devotees are undergoing treatment at the hospital, and prayers are being offered for their speedy recovery.
As the yatra continues, it is essential for the authorities to take immediate action to address the concerns of the devotees. This includes ensuring adequate arrangements for providing shade, water, and medical facilities to the participants.
In conclusion, the incident at the Jagannath Rath Yatra serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of the devotees. While the festival is a celebration of faith and devotion, it is also a responsibility of the authorities to ensure that the participants are protected from harm.
