‘Has died alive...’ Survivor's guilt and trauma grip dancer after Goa tragedy

Panaji: Days after a devastating fire ripped through a Goa nightclub and claimed 25 lives, the human toll of the tragedy continues to emerge beyond the scene of the incident. Kristina, the dancer who was performing at Birch by Romeo Lane on the night of the fire, has been left deeply traumatised, her husband has said.

Kristina’s husband, Mikhail Bukin, said she is struggling with survivor’s guilt and severe emotional distress, according to an NDTV report. He revealed that she has barely slept for nearly a week, has stopped stepping out of their home, and has lost close to five kg due to stress.

“She is constantly crying. Her life is destroyed. 25 people have lost their lives, but my wife has died alive,” he said, describing it as the darkest period the family has ever faced.

What is the status of the police investigation?

The fire, which turned what was meant to be a musical night into a nightmare, has led to an expanding investigation. Goa Police have recorded more than 60 statements so far, including that of Kristina, which was taken on December 12.

Several accused are being produced before the court as their custody periods come to an end.

Who owns the nightclub and what action has been taken?

The nightclub is owned by brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, who have been booked for culpable homicide. Investigators said the two fled India within hours of the incident.

They are currently detained in Thailand, and authorities are working to bring them back to India through legal channels.

(With agency inputs)