Dr Nirav Brahmbhatt drowns in canal helping his daughter perform Gauri Vrat ritual

A paediatrician from Gandhinagar drowned in the Adalaj Narmada canal on Saturday afternoon while helping his young daughter perform a religious ritual. The incident took place around 1:30 pm as seven-year-old Gauri Brahmbhatt watched in distress from the bank.

Dr Nirav Brahmbhatt, a resident of Anashya Greens Society in Vavol, had entered the canal to immerse offerings for the Gauri Vrat ritual on behalf of his daughter. According to police, he lost his footing and was swept away by a strong current.

Bystanders rush to help but efforts fall short

Witnesses said the child, who had been standing at a safe distance, began screaming for help upon seeing her father struggle in the water. Rickshaw drivers and nearby commuters responded to her cries. Some bystanders jumped into the canal and managed to pull Dr Brahmbhatt out after a considerable effort.


By the time he was rescued, he had reportedly swallowed a large quantity of water. He was rushed to the Adalaj Community Health Centre (CHC), where doctors performed CPR and other emergency procedures. Despite their efforts, he was declared dead shortly after arrival.

Police confirm accidental death

Inspector L D Odedara of Adalaj police said that Dr Brahmbhatt was still alive when the 108 ambulance team initially reached the spot, which prompted his immediate transfer to the CHC. "However, his condition deteriorated," Odedara said.

Adalaj police have registered a case of accidental death. Dr Brahmbhatt's wife, Dr Kosha, a medical officer at Gandhinagar Civil Hospital, arrived at the CHC soon after being informed of the incident.

Gauri Vrat and its significance

Gauri Vrat is a traditional Hindu observance, primarily followed by young girls in Gujarat. It involves fasting and praying to Goddess Gauri (a form of Parvati) for blessings of health, prosperity, and a good future. The vrat is often seen as a preparatory spiritual practice for young girls and includes the offering of food items or symbolic rituals, which are usually immersed in water bodies as part of the conclusion.

(With inputs from TOI)