Local Rituals Honoring Odisha Train Accident Victims

Local residents and social organizations in Odisha are currently observing the 10th-day rituals in memory of the souls lost in a tragic train accident in Baleswar district. This accident resulted in the unfortunate deaths of 238 people and left over 900 others injured.

During these rituals, individuals from various sections of society have come forward to pay their respects and pray for the swift recovery of the injured victims.

Furthermore, the villagers and individuals who were involved in retrieving the bodies and rescuing the injured from the distressing Coromandel Express and Bengaluru-Howrah train accidents performed a ritual called "Mass Mundan," which involves head tonsuring.

Social activists and members of spiritual organizations have actively participated in a three-day memorial event near Bahanaga High School, where the bodies were kept.

The towns of Soro and Bahanaga organized a service and conducted an interfaith prayer to honor those who lost their lives in the accident.

Local residents expressed to News18 that they are observing the 10th-day rituals for the immortal souls of the deceased in accordance with Hindu death rituals, which include the Mass Mundan and other rituals.

Sharat Raj, the organizer, stated that the 11th-day rituals, following Hindi death rituals, will be observed the next day. Brahmins from different villages have been invited to participate in these rituals. Various programs will be held to respect all religions. The prayers aim to bring peace to the departed souls and a swift recovery to the injured.

On the 11th day, which will fall on Monday, ceremonies such as Biswa Shanti Maha Yajna, 'Astaprahari Nama Yagyan, Akhanda Gayatri Mantra, and Prasad distribution will take place.