Tragedy Strikes: Indian Student’s Rakshabandhan Celebration Cut Short by Wrong‑Way Crash with CFL Player

Bhishma, 22, died on July 18 after Saskatchewan Roughrider Jayden Dalke crashed into his vehicle.

The CFL player was driving the wrong way on a divided highway, with cannabis and alcohol in his SUV, according to RCMP. Both Dalke and Bhishma were pronounced dead at the scene.

Bhishma arrived in Canada as a student in April 2022. He played percussion in a Regina‑based band and was looking forward to performing at the Garba in the Park event scheduled for July 25.

His sister, 19‑year‑old Hir Rajyaguru, had been pretending to tie the Rakshabandhan bracelet over video calls for four years. When the festival arrived, she placed the colourful thread on Bhishma’s wrist inside the casket, a ritual that would normally be celebrated a month later.

Ashish Rajyaguru, Bhishma’s father, said, “We couldn’t believe it. We lost everything,” while Hir added, “It will be the hardest day of every year for me.” Their words echo the deep grief felt by the family and friends.

The story links a cherished cultural tradition, a young musician’s aspirations, and a fatal road‑safety failure, reminding readers how quickly joy can turn into sorrow.

Bhishma, 22, died on July 18 after Saskatchewan Roughrider Jayden Dalke crashed into his vehicle.

The CFL player was driving the wrong way on a divided highway, with cannabis and alcohol in his SUV, according to RCMP. Both Dalke and Bhishma were pronounced dead at the scene.

Bhishma arrived in Canada as a student in April 2022. He played percussion in a Regina‑based band and was looking forward to performing at the Garba in the Park event scheduled for July 25.

The story links a cherished cultural tradition, a young musician’s aspirations, and a fatal road‑safety failure, reminding readers how quickly joy can turn into sorrow.