A festive wedding reception in Bihar’s Lohara village turned nightmarish when gunpowder from celebratory firing severely injured a stage dancer. The 27-28 February incident in Jamui district saw Nepali performer Poonam Kumari’s face ravaged by hot bullet remnants during her act.
Hundreds gathered for the post-wedding bash, complete with lights, music, and dance. As Poonam captivated the audience, gunfire erupted from enthusiastic guests nearby. The airborne gunpowder specks embedded into her skin, inflicting deep burns amid screams and confusion.
Stampede-like panic ensued, but quick action by event staff got her to a doctor promptly. Medical reports note facial trauma but stable condition. Agent Bhavesh explained their professional team’s role in matrimonial entertainment, booked at 35,000 rupees, and named the small group behind the shots, news of which broke at dawn.
Town police, led by Amarendra Kumar and overseen by SDPO Satish Suman, secured the venue, arrested the groom plus two others, and launched a detailed inquiry including weapon seizure. Such occurrences plague wedding seasons in the region, blending cultural exuberance with reckless endangerment.
Experts advocate for community policing and education on firearm dangers at public events. Poonam’s ordeal, after years in the industry, serves as a stark warning. As investigations deepen, the focus remains on justice and preventing future tragedies in Bihar’s vibrant yet volatile wedding traditions.