Woman drowns during post-funeral ritual at Someshwar Beach

Ullal: A woman who had come to participate in a post-funeral ritual for her sister’s husband tragically drowned at Someshwar Beach on Monday (December 16).

The deceased has been identified as Usha Bhandari (72), wife of the late Jagadish Bhandari from Derebail. Usha had accompanied her sister, Nisha Bhandari, to perform the funeral rites for Nisha’s husband, Karunakar Bhandari, who had recently passed away.

The incident occurred after the rituals were completed. While taking a ceremonial dip in the sea, Usha lost her footing and was swept away in full view of her family. Despite locals rushing to her aid and bringing her to the shore, she could not be saved.

Usha had retired as an Assistant Secretary after serving for 40 years at NMPT. She is survived by her daughter. The body has been sent to KS Hegde Hospital in Deralakatte for a post-mortem.

A case has been registered at the Ullal police station.