Pilgrims seeking peace caught in deadly Nepal-Tibet floods

In a tragic turn of events, Indian spiritual leader Sadhguru led a pilgrimage to Kailash, a sacred site in the Himalayas, only to find his devotees caught in a devastating flood. The 6,638-meter-high mountain, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, is central to the annual pilgrimage, with thousands of Indians and Hindus participating each year. However, climate change has intensified the risks of glacial lake floods and collapses, leading to the recent disaster.

Laloma, a Nepali mother, recounted her harrowing experience as she and her infant son and husband were rescued from the devastated area of Syabrubesi. The buses carrying the pilgrims were swept away, leaving families separated and in despair. More than 470 people have died, and over 1,400 are missing in both China and Nepal. Sadhguru, visibly shaken, described the situation as "a terrible and extraordinary event" in a video message to his followers.

The floodwaters, caused by a glacial collapse, swept away homes and bridges, leaving no means of communication or access to the affected areas. The pilgrimage, organized by India's foreign ministry in coordination with Chinese authorities, had restarted after a 2020 border clash. Families of the missing, like Logadarrsiny Raman from Malaysia, remain in anguish, anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones.