Former Indian Kabaddi captain and Arjuna Award winner Deepak Hooda had a terrifying experience on Wednesday when he fell into the fast-flowing Ganga River in Haridwar during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra. Thanks to the quick and brave response of the Uttarakhand Police, he was rescued just in time.

The rescue operation was carried out by the 40th Battalion of the state police, who jumped from their boat into the river to save Hooda despite the strong currents pulling the boat away. A video shared by the police on their official social media shows the dramatic moments as officers fought the river’s force to pull him to safety. Hooda later expressed his gratitude to the police for their courageous and swift action.

Deepak Hooda is well-known for his achievements in kabaddi, having represented India in multiple international events. He is married to international boxer Saweety Boora. Earlier this year, a dowry harassment case was filed against Hooda and his sister by Saweety, alleging dowry demands since their 2022 marriage.

This incident sheds light on the increasing dangers of water safety during the Kanwar Yatra pilgrimage, when large crowds gather near the Ganga. The Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) reported rescuing at least six pilgrims from drowning at Kangra Ghat in Haridwar just this month.

The powerful currents of the Ganga have unfortunately caused several tragic drownings in recent months. In May, a 19-year-old, whose father serves in the Indian Air Force, lost his life at the Sangam in Prayagraj. In another heartbreaking incident, a 16-year-old boy drowned near Masuri while trying to record a video.