Bollywood actress Preity Zinta has expressed deep sorrow and concern for the victims of the recent Uttarkashi cloudburst, which has left the Himalayan village of Dharali in Uttarakhand devastated. The sudden and intense rainfall triggered flash floods, sweeping away homes, vehicles, shops, and lives in a matter of minutes.
Taking to social media, the actress, who hails from neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, offered her heartfelt condolences and prayers. “My heart goes out to all the people that have suffered from the devastating flash flood in Uttarakhand. Keeping them and their families in my prayers. Life is so fragile & unpredictable,” she wrote, reflecting on the uncertainty and vulnerability that natural disasters bring.
The cloudburst struck with little warning, resulting in massive destruction across the region. According to reports, four people have lost their lives, nearly 100 remain missing, and several dozen structures — including 12 hotels, homes, and shops — have been destroyed. The sheer force of the floodwaters left residents with virtually no time to respond, wiping out what many had built over decades.
Earlier in the day, actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood also took to social media to raise awareness and call for urgent relief measures. “Dharali is drowning in silence — and we can’t be silent anymore,” he posted. “4 lives lost, nearly 100 missing, 12 hotels, homes, and shops swept away in seconds. What they built over decades vanished overnight. These aren’t just numbers — they’re families, dreams, futures.”
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Sood further urged both government and private sectors to come forward with meaningful assistance. He proposed tax benefits and policy incentives for individuals and organisations contributing to rebuilding efforts, emphasising that systemic encouragement could inspire even those who might not otherwise participate in relief work. “Let’s not wait for another headline. It’s time for governments, corporates, and citizens to stand together — to relocate, to rebuild, to restore dignity. Because tragedy chose them — but humanity must choose them now,” he added, using hashtags such as #RebuildDharali, #RiseTogether, and #ActWithCompassion.
The Dharali disaster has prompted an outpouring of empathy from the Indian film fraternity, with many celebrities using their platforms to spread awareness and call for donations. Relief teams and volunteers are already on the ground, but the scale of destruction means that recovery will require coordinated efforts over the coming months.
For the people of Uttarkashi, the road ahead will be long and challenging. Yet, with solidarity and sustained support, there remains hope for rebuilding not just homes, but lives and communities.
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