Bhubaneswar, April 28: What began as a joyous wedding celebration ended in tragedy after a 19-year-old youth lost his life in a cracker explosion in Puri on Monday night.

The deceased has been identified as Sanu Malik, a resident of Mangalaghat Paik Sahi. He worked as a horse rider on Puri beach and was the sole breadwinner of his young family. Sanu had recently married, and his wife, Subhadra, is six months pregnant.

According to reports, the incident occurred at a wedding hall in Khandiabandh while Sanu was reportedly handling electric crackers as part of the celebrations for his sister’s wedding. A sudden explosion left his hands severely burnt. He was first rushed to the district headquarters hospital in critical condition and later referred to a private hospital. However, he succumbed to his injuries on the way.

Family members said Sanu had gone to assist with the wedding arrangements and earn some extra money. He had last spoken to his wife around 10:30 pm. The family received the devastating news early the next morning.

While his father has alleged possible foul play, police have begun an investigation to determine whether the incident was accidental or due to negligence.

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