Three trains collided near Balasore, Odisha, on 2nd June 2023, resulting in one of the deadliest train tragedies of the century. While governments and many NGOs have come together to extend their helping hand, the digital community has also shown remarkable initiative to help those in need. The social media support to the Odisha Train Tragedy has been extensive. Ajay Nager, popularly known as Carry Minati, has particularly shown kindness by facilitating a fundraiser for the victims.
The rise of social media has paved the way for a new group of influential individuals known as influencers or creators These individuals possess the power to sway public opinion and mobilise their large online followings. There have been instances where these social media personalities have used their platforms to shed light on and assist in times of crisis. One such example is the Odisha Train Tragedy, where many notable figures came forward with compassion and dedication to aid the victims of this devastating incident.
Overview of the Odisha Train Tragedy
On a fateful day, a tragic train accident occurred in the state of Odisha, India, leaving behind a trail of destruction and loss. The Coromandel Express, The SMVT SF Express and a goods train collided with each other claiming the lives of nearly 300 people and injuring more than 1100 people. The affected individuals are facing unimaginable hardships, desperately needing assistance in various forms, including medical aid, shelter, and emotional support.
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The Multifaceted Role Of Creators
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, a group of compassionate creators and known personalities stepped forward to extend their support and bring attention to the plight of the victims. With their vast online reach and engaged audiences, they recognised the urgency of the situation and realised that they could play a crucial role in mobilising resources, raising funds, and generating awareness.
Raising Awareness
Soon after the incident, many celebrities and creators used their social media platforms to raise awareness about the Odisha Train Tragedy. They posted heartfelt messages, shared news updates, and disseminated factual information to ensure their followers were well-informed about the incident. By leveraging their online influence, these notable figures helped to combat misinformation and create a sense of empathy and urgency among their audience.
Fundraising Campaigns
Recognizing the immediate need for financial assistance, these influential individuals such as Carry Minati have organised and promoted fundraising campaigns dedicated to helping the victims. They used platforms and their persuasive abilities to encourage their followers to donate generously, emphasising the importance of collective action in times of crisis
Carry Minati
Carry Minati has shown unparalleled support for the tragic train accident. Youtuber Ajay Nager organised a charity live stream where he encouraged people to donate to offer relief to the victims and their families. Through his live stream, Ajay was able to raise nearly 12 lakh rupees. Additionally, he also contributed 1.5 lakh rupees from his end to support the victims. The Youtuber collected 13.4 lakh rupees in total. He has been widely appreciated for all the help and also received an acknowledgment letter from the Chief Minister Relief Fund, Odisha.
Blackswan
The popular Korean band Blackswan has Sriya Lenka as an active member of the band. She is from the state of Odisha, which makes this tragedy personal for the band. Apart from this tie, the members of Blackswan also recorded their song ‘That Karma’ in Odisha and received immense love in the State. Dr Music Entertainment, the organisation that handles the band has also pledged to donate part of Karma sales to better the situation.
S8ul esports
S8ul is one of the largest gaming organisations in India which has many content creators and esports players associated with it. The organisation also raised a charity live stream through Scouts’ Youtube channel and raised more than 15 lakh rupees to contribute to the Odisha Relief fund. Seeing these creators use social media for a social cause assures us of the role of the platform in building communities.
The Odisha Train Tragedy showcased the immense power and potential of social media to make a positive impact during times of crisis. Their proactive involvement in raising awareness, organising fundraising campaigns, and supporting rehabilitation efforts demonstrated the influential force of social media for social change. By leveraging the platforms for a greater cause, these creators and artists have proved that compassion, empathy, and collective action can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the tragedy.
