A devastating fire at a popular nightclub in Goa, India, has resulted in the tragic deaths of 25 individuals, primarily migrant workers and tourists. The fire broke out at Birch By Romeo Lane in the early hours of December 3, 2023, while the club was filled with patrons, and authorities have since arrested at least four people, including the nightclub’s manager.
The victims included two brothers, Binod and Pradip Mahto, who had recently moved from Ranchi in Jharkhand state in search of better job opportunities. Their elder brother, Fagu Mahto, shared that the siblings worked as cooks at the nightclub and were slated to marry early next year. “They asked me to get the house built before Holi so that it would be ready in time for the weddings,” he said.
Victims Remembered by Grieving Families
In Jharkhand’s Khunti district, 52-year-old Phulo Mundain awaited the return of her son, Mohit, who worked as a waiter at the nightclub. “Our financial situation was improving because of his earnings,” she said, recalling how Mohit had plans to build a house within a year. Tragically, those dreams were shattered as he was among the victims of the fire.
The impact of the tragedy extended beyond Jharkhand. In Uttarakhand, the death of 27-year-old Satish Rana has left his family in mourning. His father, Surendra Rana, expressed disbelief that his son, who had only moved to Goa for work two months prior, would not be returning home.
In Karnataka, MD Hussain was overwhelmed with grief as he received the body of his 25-year-old son, Ishaq, who had travelled to Goa with friends. A family member revealed that Ishaq died in the chaos that ensued after the fire broke out.
Tourists Also Among the Victims
The tragedy also claimed the lives of four tourists from Delhi, including a man and three of his sisters-in-law. Family friend Harish Singh reported that they were all excited for their first trip to Goa. The man’s wife, Bhavna, was the only survivor from their group, as they were preparing to leave the nightclub when the fire erupted.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, families are left grappling with their losses. Authorities are examining whether safety regulations were breached in the nightclub. The incident highlights the ongoing struggles faced by many migrant workers in India, who often seek opportunities in tourist hotspots like Goa, only to encounter devastating circumstances.
This tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, as families and friends remember their loved ones who had dreams and aspirations now cut short.
