A tragic incident that struck the heart of Mysuru during the festive season has reached a somber conclusion. The body of balloon seller Saleem, who lost his life in a devastating hydrogen gas cylinder explosion on Thursday night, has begun its final journey. On Saturday morning, the mortal remains were dispatched from Mysuru to his birthplace in Kannauj district, Uttar Pradesh.
Final Journey Home
According to officials from the Devaraja police station, the legal formalities surrounding the death were completed, paving the way for the body's transportation. Around 11 am on Saturday, the body was placed in an ambulance to commence the long road journey northwards. Accompanying him on this poignant final trip were three of his associates, who were not just his business partners but also his family members. The group is expected to reach the native village in Uttar Pradesh by Sunday evening.
A Seasonal Life in Mysuru
The tragedy has highlighted the transient lives of many migrant workers who become part of Mysuru's cultural fabric during specific seasons. Sources revealed that for several years, Saleem followed a familiar pattern. He, along with his family group, would arrive in Mysuru city coinciding with the grand Dasara festival. They would then stay on, selling balloons, until the New Year celebrations concluded.
During their stay in the city, the group resided in a low-budget lodge located in the Mandi Mohalla area, a common choice for many seasonal workers seeking affordable accommodation. Their presence was a small but consistent part of the city's vibrant street economy during the festive months.
Community and Aftermath
The explosion that claimed Saleem's life has cast a shadow over the community of street vendors in the region. It serves as a stark reminder of the occupational hazards faced by many who work with flammable materials like hydrogen gas, often without access to stringent safety protocols. While the investigation into the exact cause of the explosion is likely underway, the immediate focus has been on providing dignity to the deceased in death. The successful coordination to transport the body across state lines marks the end of the official procedures in Mysuru, even as the grief settles in his hometown in Uttar Pradesh.
