Tragedy Strikes During Khudurukuni Osa Ritual as Woman Drowns in Mahanadi

Cuttack — What began as a sacred morning of devotion turned into heartbreak in Banki’s Damapada area when a young woman, Pinky Swain, drowned in the Mahanadi River during Khudurukuni Osa rituals.

The incident occurred at Ratagada ghat, where dozens of women had gathered to perform idol immersion and bathe in the river as part of the annual observance.

Khudurukuni Osa, celebrated by unmarried girls and women, is a traditional ritual praying for the well-being of brothers and family members.

Eyewitnesses say Pinky slipped while entering the river and was swept away by strong currents. Despite frantic rescue efforts by locals and family members, she remained untraceable.

Fire services arrived but were criticised for conducting only surface-level searches.

Villagers demanded the deployment of skilled divers, citing dangerously high water levels due to recent rainfall.

The festive spirit quickly turned sombre as the community mourned the sudden loss. Search operations are ongoing, and the village remains gripped by grief.