Palakkad, September 15: A 49-year-old man tragically died after choking on idlis during an eating contest held as part of Onam celebrations in Walayar near Palakkad on Saturday, September 14, 2024. The man, identified as Suresh, was participating in the competition organised by a local club.

According to police, Suresh began choking after attempting to swallow three idlis at once. Onlookers tried to help by removing the food lodged in his throat and rushed him to a nearby private hospital. He was later transferred to another hospital in Walayar, where he was declared dead. Hyderabad: Man Chokes to Death After Piece of Chicken Gets Stuck in His Throat, Video Surfaces.

Chullimada ward member Minmini R confirmed that Suresh displayed signs of distress during the competition, prompting immediate efforts to save him. Despite these attempts, Suresh did not survive, reported Onmanorama. His body is currently being held for a post-mortem examination. Police have registered a case of unnatural death, and investigations are ongoing. Uttar Pradesh Shocker: Toffee Stuck in Throat, Six-Year-Old Chokes to Death in Rampur.

Suresh, who worked as a truck driver, participated in the contest as part of the broader Onam festivities, which is Kerala’s annual harvest and cultural celebration. Onam celebrations this year span from September 6 to September 15, with the main festival day, Thiruvonam, falling on Sunday, September 15. The incident has cast a pall over the otherwise joyous festivities in the area.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 15, 2024 11:26 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).