15-year-old boy struck by train while filming social media reel near Odisha railway station

Summary

A 15-year-old boy from Puri, Odisha, died after being struck by a train while attempting to record a social media reel near Janakdeipur railway station on October 22, 2025. The incident occurred as he was returning home with his mother after visiting a temple. Experts have linked the incident to the growing trend of youths risking their lives for social media popularity, driven by the pursuit of likes, followers, and validation. In the past few months, similar incidents have occurred in Odisha, including a 22-year-old YouTuber swept away by waterfalls and a mother-daughter duo hit by a vehicle while filming on a busy road. Mental health professionals have highlighted that the compulsion to create viral content stems from emotional needs, FOMO, and the dopamine-like effect of social media engagement. Experts urge the integration of digital literacy and mental health awareness into education and family discussions to address the issue.