Bhubaneswar, May 14: Tragedy struck during the Chandan Yatra celebrations in Puri as a young man drowned in the sacred Narendra Pond on Wednesday afternoon.
The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, was reportedly taking part in the rituals when the incident occurred, eyewitnesses said.
Narendra Pond, also known as Narendra Pushkarini, holds deep spiritual importance during the Chandan Yatra, drawing thousands of devotees who gather to watch the ceremonial bathing of the idols representing Lord Jagannath and his siblings. However, the swelling crowds and absence of strong safety measures once again proved dangerous.
Responding swiftly, local police and fire brigades launched a search operation that continued for several hours. Initial reports indicate the victim may have slipped into deeper waters amid the throng of festival-goers. An investigation into the exact cause is ongoing.
This is not the first time tragedy has overshadowed the Chandan Yatra at Narendra Pond. In 2024, a firecracker explosion near the same site claimed 17 lives and left over 30 injured, sparking public outcry and demands for improved safety protocols. Unfortunately, Wednesday’s drowning highlights continued lapses.
Despite its sacred proximity to the Jagannath Temple, Narendra Pushkarini remains hazardous due to its depth and lack of protective barriers — a dangerous combination during mass gatherings.
