SURREY – Diwali Dhamaka has turned into complete tragedy for Samit Aulakh and his family as the Diwali sweet eating contest sponsored by a local radio station ended badly with Aulakh choking on sugar-filled Gulab Jamun balls and falling into a coma.
The 36–year-old Aulakh is fighting for his life in hospital the RedFM 93.1’s held Diwali celebrations at Central City were shut down by the radio owners following Aulakh’s collapse last Saturday.
Aulakhamily friend Nachatar Brar told the Province newspaper his friend has been on life support surrounded by family — including his seven-year-old son and wife — since the incident.
“He’s still in bad condition,” Brar said. “His brain is not functioning.
“We’re just waiting and hoping.”
The annual Diwali event was sponsored by local radio station RED 93.1 FM and hosted at Central City Shopping Centre’s outdoor plaza.
RedFM president Kulwinder Sanghera told the Vancouver Sun that nothing has ever gone wrong at previous contests
“Our heart goes out to the family,” said Kulwinder Sanghera, president of the local radio station RED 93.1 FM, which hosted the competition at Central City Shopping Centre’s outdoor plaza.
“Some of my staff members are still in shock,” added Sanghera, who was told the man, whose name wasn’t released, remains in critical condition.
Sanghera said St. John Ambulance attendants on hand at the festival were there to help in “25 seconds” and the man was immediately transferred to hospital.
The rest of the free family festival was subsequently cancelled, including several performances including one by popular bhangra singer Lehmber Hussainpuri.
