On August 23, 2025, 22-year-old YouTuber Sagar Tudu, also known as Sagar Kundu, was swept away by strong currents at Duduma Waterfall in Koraput, Odisha. He was filming reels and drone shots for his YouTube channel, which has nearly 500 subscribers and focuses on Odisha’s culture and tourist spots.
Tudu, a Berhampur resident and BTech student, was with his friend Abhijit Behera when the Machakunda dam released water due to heavy rainfall, causing a sudden surge in the waterfall’s flow. Tudu was stranded on a slippery rock, unable to maintain balance, and was swept away despite rescue attempts by locals using ropes.
A viral video captured the incident, showing bystanders’ failed efforts to save him as the current intensified.
Machakunda police and Fire Brigade launched a search operation, but Tudu remained missing as of August 25, 2025. Authorities issued warnings about safety near waterfalls during monsoon season, urging content creators to prioritize caution.
The ongoing search involves local police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Tudu’s family, including his father Sarthak Kundu, awaits updates, with no confirmation of his status as of the latest reports.
