Date: January 3, 2025 | Location: Kolhapur
In a rare and astonishing turn of events, the family of 65-year-old Pandurang Ulpe from Kolhapur witnessed him come back to life during his journey to the crematorium. Ulpe, who was previously declared dead by doctors following a heart attack, showed signs of life after the ambulance transporting his body struck a speed bump.
Ulpe’s grandson, Omkar Ramane, recounted the unbelievable experience. "We were on our way to perform his last rites when we noticed his fingers moving after the ambulance hit a bump. We immediately stopped and checked for a pulse – it was faint but there. Without wasting time, we took him back to the hospital," Ramane said.
How It Happened
On December 16, Ulpe had returned home from his farm feeling unwell and began vomiting. His wife quickly called for medical assistance, and he was taken to a private hospital in Kasba Bawda, where doctors diagnosed a heart attack. Despite their efforts, Ulpe was pronounced dead after vomiting blood multiple times.
Ulpe’s family accepted the heartbreaking news and began making funeral arrangements. However, as they were transporting his body, they noticed movement near Chougule Galli. "A relative checked his wrist and found a pulse," Ramane explained.
Critical Rescue and Treatment
Ulpe was initially rushed to CPR Hospital, but due to bed shortages, he was redirected to DY Patil Hospital. There, doctors confirmed his critical condition. "He was on the verge of collapse when we received him. We performed CPR and placed him on a ventilator. An ECG revealed a blockage, necessitating angioplasty," a hospital doctor reported.
Ulpe spent two days in intensive care before making a full recovery. He was discharged from the hospital on December 30, walking out to the applause of his family and friends. A video capturing the moment he returned home has since gone viral on local social media.
Ongoing Investigation
The Kolhapur Municipal Corporation (KMC) has launched an investigation into the incident. "This is a serious matter. Doctors cannot declare someone dead without thorough examination. We will thoroughly probe the episode," said Prakash Pavra, KMC’s chief health officer.
The family has opted not to disclose the names of the hospital or doctors who initially declared Ulpe dead.
