Biren Dies Hanging World Cup Flag

A football fan in Bangladesh has died after falling from a tree while putting up a France flag to celebrate the FIFA World Cup, leaving his family and local community in mourning.

The victim, Biren Patra, 35, was a resident of West Chati village in Ward No. 8 of Chiknagul Union under Jaintiapur upazila in Sylhet. He was the son of the late Ilendra Patra.

The fatal accident occurred at around 1:00 pm on Friday when Biren climbed a tree estimated to be about 60 feet high to hoist a French national flag in support of his favourite team during the ongoing FIFA World Cup.

According to local sources, Biren had successfully completed tying the flag to the top of the tree. However, while climbing down, he reportedly lost his grip and fell from a considerable height, suffering critical injuries.

Relatives and local residents rushed to his aid and took him to a hospital in Sylhet for emergency treatment. Despite their efforts, the attending doctors declared him dead upon arrival.

The incident was confirmed by Ahidur Rahman, the elected member of Ward No. 8 of Chiknagul Union, and village police member Shri Lob Patra.

Expressing his condolences, Ahidur Rahman said Biren had been involved in putting up the France flag as a show of support for the national team when the tragic accident occurred. He extended his sympathies to the bereaved family and described the incident as deeply saddening for the entire community.

Biren’s sudden death has left behind a grieving family. He is survived by his wife, three daughters and a six-month-old son, whose future has become uncertain following the loss of the family’s primary breadwinner.

Family members said the tragedy has left them devastated, adding that his death has created an irreplaceable void in their lives. They expressed particular concern for the young children, especially the infant son, who will grow up without his father’s care and support.

The news spread quickly through the village, drawing neighbours and well-wishers to the family’s home. Residents described Biren as a familiar face in the community and said his enthusiasm for football had led him to decorate the area with his team’s colours ahead of the tournament.

His funeral rites were performed later on Friday in accordance with his religious traditions, with relatives, neighbours and members of the local community gathering to pay their final respects.

Football supporters across Bangladesh often celebrate major international tournaments by displaying the flags of their favourite national teams outside homes, along roadsides and in open fields. The colourful displays have become a familiar feature during World Cup competitions, reflecting the country’s deep passion for football despite not participating in the tournament itself.

The tragic accident in Sylhet has cast a shadow over those celebrations, serving as a stark reminder of the risks associated with climbing tall structures or trees without appropriate safety measures. While the football festival continues to unite supporters across the country, Biren Patra’s untimely death has left one family facing an immeasurable loss and a community mourning the life of a devoted football enthusiast.