By Tim Binnall
A series of mysterious deaths followed by perceived paranormal activity has led to a ghost panic gripping an Indian village. According to a local media report, the peculiar case began around five months ago in the community of Mariguda, when a resident passed away under inexplicable circumstances. Four more mysterious deaths followed, understandably raising concerns among people in the community. In recent weeks, their consternation has been compounded by what residents believe to be paranormal activity brought about by their departed friends and neighbors.
Specifically, people in Mariguda have reported hearing "eerie sights and sounds," including smoke inexplicably billowing from treetops, that they have attributed to the spirits of the late community members. The fear has become so significant that some residents have started altering their daily routines so as to outwit whatever supernatural forces are thought to roam around the village. Meanwhile, more daring young members of the community have committed to staying up all night to stand guard against the ghostly interlopers.
Interestingly, one explanation offered for the unnerving disruption that has befallen Mariguda is the construction of an embankment at a long-sacred river that runs through the community. Hoping to put an end to the mysterious deaths and the paranormal activity seemingly associated with them, residents have begun raising funds for a local mystic to perform a ritual to "bring peace to the spirits." While skeptical observers have argued that the panic is more the product of superstition rather than something supernatural, their critique of the situation has largely fallen on deaf ears in the community.