Celebration Turns to Tragedy in Mandal Village
What began as a vibrant evening of fireworks, drumbeats and dancing in a small Odisha village ended in unimaginable grief on Tuesday night. A wedding procession traveling from Ampali village (Loisingha block) to Mandal under Belpada police limits was struck by disaster when the groom’s own car rammed into the dancing crowd.
Car Suddenly Accelerates, Runs Over Baraat
According to eyewitnesses, thousands of villagers were dancing joyfully ahead of the groom’s decorated car, on which he was riding with his father, Ghiblu Bag (55). Around 11:30 p.m., the vehicle suddenly accelerated and ploughed into the crowd.
The groom, who had reportedly rubbed his eyes after applying kajal, is believed to have lost control for a moment — a split second that cost multiple lives and injured many.
Father Crushed to Death, Bride’s Brother Battles for Life
Ghiblu Bag was crushed under the wheels and died on the spot. The bride’s brother suffered severe injuries to his head and chest. He was rushed by a 108 ambulance to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital, Bolangir, where he remains in critical condition.
Several others escaped with minor scratches and bruises as the joyous procession dissolved into panic and screams.
Families Proceed With Wedding Amid Grief
In an extraordinary display of composure amid heartbreak, both families gathered in tears and took a difficult decision: to continue with the wedding rituals despite the tragedy.
The marriage was completed in a quiet, sombre ceremony while the villages of Mandal and Ampali mourned their loss.
Police Investigation Underway
Local police have seized the vehicle and registered a case of accidental deaths. Preliminary findings point to either brake failure or driver error, though a detailed investigation is ongoing.
Villages Shrouded in Silence
The villages, once echoing with music and celebration, now stand silent — a stark reminder of how swiftly joy and sorrow can arrive in the same procession.