17-Year-Old Boy Drowns During Chhath Puja in Uttar Pradesh
A tragic incident unfolded during Chhath Puja celebrations in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur district, where a 17-year-old boy drowned while taking a holy dip in the Ganga River. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, casting a pall over the festive atmosphere.
What Happened?
The victim, identified as Ritesh Kumar, was a resident of a nearby village. He had accompanied his family for the traditional rituals when he was swept away by strong river currents. Eyewitnesses said he entered the water for the customary bath but struggled against the flow.
Local authorities and villagers launched a search operation, recovering his body hours later. Police confirmed Ritesh was not an experienced swimmer, and the river’s conditions were riskier than expected.
Chhath Puja: A Festival with Hidden Dangers
Chhath Puja, a major Hindu festival in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern UP, involves devotees offering prayers to the Sun God. A core ritual includes standing in water for prolonged periods, which has led to past drowning incidents due to:
– Overcrowding at ghats
– Unpredictable water currents
– Lack of safety measures
Despite annual warnings, many devotees disregard risks, relying on faith for protection.
Calls for Improved Safety Measures
The tragedy has sparked demands for stricter safety protocols, including:
✔ Lifeguards & rescue teams at high-risk ghats
✔ Safety ropes & life jackets for devotees
✔ Public awareness campaigns
Local activists and politicians have urged action to prevent future incidents.
Family & Community in Mourning
Ritesh’s family described him as a bright student aspiring to be an engineer. The community has rallied around them, demanding accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Drowning incidents during Chhath Puja remain a recurring issue.
- Authorities must enforce better safety measures.
- Public awareness is critical to prevent tragedies.
Ghazipur mourns a young life lost—a reminder that devotion must align with caution.
For further updates, follow reliable news sources.
