Tragic Accident at Bengaluru Temple Fair Claims Life of Groom-to-Be
A joyous occasion turned into a devastating tragedy in Bengaluru when a 29-year-old man, who was just weeks away from his wedding, lost his life in a horrific accident during a temple fair procession. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday at Hulimavu, casting a pall of grief over the community.
Festive Celebration Turns Fatal
The accident took place during the annual Brahmarathotsava celebrations at the Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy temple, which had drawn a large gathering of devotees. As part of the traditional festivities, a late-night palanquin procession was being held, creating a vibrant atmosphere that quickly turned somber.
Akshath, a resident of Banashankari 2nd Stage, had visited Hulimavu to personally distribute wedding invitations to his friends. After completing his task, he decided to stay back at a friend's house to witness the colorful procession. His marriage was scheduled for the end of the month, making the tragedy even more heartbreaking for his family and loved ones.
Details of the Horrific Incident
According to preliminary police investigations, Akshath was standing by the roadside watching the palanquin of Sri Mutturayaswamy when tragedy struck around 4:30 AM. A tractor carrying the religious palanquin suddenly ran over him, causing him to fall onto the road. The tractor's right rear wheel then dragged him for several meters before running over him completely.
The impact caused severe injuries to Akshath's head, abdomen, and back. Bystanders immediately rushed him to a nearby private hospital, but doctors declared him brought dead upon arrival. The sudden loss left his family and friends completely devastated, with wedding preparations abruptly turning into funeral arrangements.
Police Investigation and Arrest
The tractor driver abandoned the vehicle at the scene and fled immediately after the accident. Hulimavu traffic police registered a case based on a complaint filed by Akshath's father, Purushottam, who is a prominent businessman owning fuel stations and schools in the city.
Preliminary reports strongly suggest the accident occurred due to driver negligence. DCP (south traffic) Gopal M Byakod personally visited the accident spot to oversee the investigation. By late evening, Hulimavu traffic police successfully apprehended the absconding tractor driver, identified as Asadullah, aged 53.
Authorities collected blood samples from the driver to determine whether he was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol at the time of the tragic incident. The investigation continues as police gather more evidence about the circumstances leading to the fatal accident.
Remembering the Victim
Akshath was a BCA graduate who had been actively assisting his father in managing the family business. In a touching gesture of generosity amid their grief, the family donated his eyes before the post-mortem examination, potentially giving the gift of sight to others in need.
The community has been left in shock by the sudden loss of a young man on the brink of starting a new chapter in his life. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly celebrations can turn to tragedy, and has raised questions about safety measures during large religious processions in crowded urban areas.
