In a tragic incident from Karnataka’s Kolar district, a 21-year-old man died after consuming five bottles of undiluted liquor in an attempt to win a ₹10,000 bet. The deceased, identified as Karthik, had recently become a father just eight days before his untimely death.
According to reports, the incident took place in Mulbagal, where Karthik was socializing with a group of friends. During the gathering, he claimed he could drink five full bottles of liquor without dilution. One of his friends, Venkata Reddy, reportedly challenged him with a cash reward of ₹10,000 if he could prove it.
In a dangerous bid to back his claim, Karthik consumed all five bottles of liquor. He soon became critically ill and was rushed to a hospital in Mulbagal, where he succumbed to alcohol poisoning despite medical intervention.
Police have registered a case at the Nangali police station. So far, two individuals — Venkata Reddy and Subramani — have been arrested in connection with the incident, and authorities are continuing their search for four other accused.
Karthik’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community. Friends and family are mourning the loss of a young man whose life was cut short just as he was beginning his journey into fatherhood and family life.
The tragedy also underscores the severe health risks associated with alcohol consumption. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), harmful use of alcohol contributes to 2.6 million deaths globally each year and is a leading cause of premature mortality and disability, especially among people aged 20 to 39.
Dr. Carina Ferreira-Borges, a regional advisor with the WHO, emphasized, “We cannot talk about a so-called safe level of alcohol use. The risk to the drinker’s health starts from the first drop. The more you drink, the more harmful it is.”
Authorities have urged the public to be aware of the dangers of excessive alcohol use and the deadly consequences of irresponsible challenges and dares involving substances.
Sources By Agencies
