Rajasthan Balloon Show becomes tragic as the veteran operator during the hearing at Baran Utsav | Shocking Video | Today news

A festive morning became in a scene of tragedy in the Baran district of Rajasthan after an air air balloon operator fell on the city during a hearing on the city of Khel Sankul land. The cold incident happened at about 7am on Thursday, the last day of the three-day Baran Utsav, which left participants and officials in shock. The victim, identified as the 40-year-old Vasudev Khatri of Kota, was an experienced expert on the hot air balloon with more than two decades of experience. He was preparing for a balloon show, one of the star attractions of the festival, when the accident occurred during a safety test. According to DSP Omendra Singh Shekhawat, Vasudev offered a solo trial. While the balloon was blown up, he was reportedly holding on to the ropes to monitor stability. Mid-Ascent snapped one of the supporting queues, causing him to lose his grip and dropped from a considerable height right in front of officials and early festival goers. Emergency services rushed to the Baran District Hospital immediately, but doctors declared him dead on arrival due to the serious injuries he sustained in the fall. His body was sent to post -mortem death, and a detailed investigation was launched to determine whether negligence or faulty equipment played a role. The incident shocked those present at the venue. District officials, who have already gathered for the preparations of the day, were one of the eyewitnesses. Within moments, the festive atmosphere became gloomy, and the schedule of the event was suspended. A video that captures the fall has become viral on social media, causing outrage and demands for accountability. Netizens ask for stricter regulations and safety protocols for adventure activities offered at public festivals. What has worsened public sadness is the legacy of Vasudev. He is known as a dedicated and experienced professional in hot airball king and is considered one of the safest hands in the field. “He wasn’t a beginner. He knew what he was doing, which made this loss all the more tragic,” DSP Shekhawat said. First published: 10 Apr 2025, 22:51 IST