Onam celebrations: Eating Idli during competition turns fatal for Kerala man
A 49-year-old man tragically lost his life at Walayar, in Kerala During the Onam celebrations on Saturday.
A tragic incident occurred when a 49-year-old man from Kerala choked on idlis while competing in an eating contest. The man, identified as Suresh, lost his life after choking on an idli during the event, which was part of the festive activities. Despite the efforts of onlookers who managed to dislodge the idli from his throat, he was quickly taken to the hospital but unfortunately could not be saved.
He took part in an idli-eating competition hosted by a group of young people in Nalamaram, Kollapura.
Onam, a vibrant ten-day festival, is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the state, but such unfortunate incidents have been reported in the past.
Authorities have opened an investigation into the unnatural death, and a case has been registered. Reports indicate that four individuals participated in the contest, which involved consuming plain idlis without any accompaniments. Witnesses noted that Suresh attempted to eat three idlis at once, while the other competitors opted for a more cautious approach, consuming one idli at a time. Within a minute, he felt uneasiness and choking and collapsed. He was rushed to a nearby clinic first and then to a private hospital in the vicinity. However, the doctors there declared him brought dead, an onlooker said.
“Suresh was a very energetic person. The residents of Alamaram were holding various games and mini-contests for the local people as part of the Onam celebrations when this tragic incident occurred. He collapsed around noon. He was working as a truck driver and living with his mother Kollapura Panchali,” informs PB Gireesh, Pudussery grama panchayat member from Pudur ward.
Choking occurs when an object becomes stuck in the windpipe, obstructing airflow. If someone is choking, you might observe several signs. When a person is choking, their airway is either partially or fully obstructed, which can prevent them from breathing effectively. They may attempt to cough to clear the blockage, but if they are unable to do so, immediate assistance is necessary.
If you suspect someone is choking, inquire, “Are you choking?” If they can breathe, speak, or cough, they may be capable of clearing their throat on their own. However, if they cannot breathe, cough, or make any sound, they require your immediate assistance.