Bhubaneswar, March 4 -- What was meant to be a day of joy and celebration turned tragic in Odisha as several drowning incidents were reported on Wednesday from different parts of the state during Holi festivities.

At least nine people lost their lives while another person was reported missing after being swept away by strong currents. The incidents mostly occurred when people went to rivers and canals to bathe after playing with colours.

Two Deaths Reported in Jajpur

In Jajpur district, two separate incidents claimed two lives. A minor drowned in the Brahmani River at Digambarpur while bathing. In another incident under the Jajpur Road police station limits, a youth drowned in the Kharasrota river while bathing with friends following H...