India: Kidnap Victim Credits Our Lady of Fatima for Safe Return in Odisha

A college student who safely returned home after a kidnapping incident in eastern India has credited the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima for his rescue, strengthening devotion among Catholics in Odisha state.

Ashoj Kumar Digal, a second-year college student from Sugadabadi village in Kandhamal district, said prayer and faith in Mother Mary sustained him during days of fear and uncertainty.

The thanksgiving gathering took place on May 13 at Our Lady of Charity Parish in the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, where family members, parishioners, and villagers joined in prayer following his safe return.

“We are grateful to Our Lady of Fatima of Sugadabadi for her intercession in our needs and struggles,” said Jugal Pradhan, president of St. Paul’s Mission Station in Sugadabadi. “She is a protector, consoler, giver of hope, and bringer of peace to humanity.”

Pradhan said devotion to Mother Mary has become a source of spiritual strength for many families in the region, especially during times of suffering and crisis.

Speaking emotionally after returning home, Digal recalled how he prayed the Rosary while in captivity.

“The kidnapper took me to a distant and unfamiliar place. I realized I was not safe,” Digal said. “I had a Rosary in my pocket and began praying. At one point, the man moved away for a short time, and I managed to send a message to my father through my mobile phone.”

According to Digal, his father reached the location on May 12 and rescued him.

“It was Our Lady of Fatima who saved me,” he said. “I experienced the power of the Holy Rosary.”

Ashok Digal, the student’s father, expressed gratitude for his son’s safe return and urged young people to remain rooted in faith and responsibility.

“In moments of fear and suffering, faith in God gives courage and hope,” he said. “Prayer helps young people remain strong even in difficult situations.”

The student’s rescue coincided with the feast of Our Lady of Fatima, celebrated at Golgotha Grotto in Sugadabadi, where around 500 Marian devotees, five Catholic priests, and a religious sister gathered for prayer and celebration.

In his homily, Father Michael Behera encouraged the faithful to embrace the message of Fatima through prayer, repentance, and peace.

“Mother Mary calls us to pray, especially the Rosary, for peace in the world and conversion of hearts,” he said. “She leads people closer to Jesus and gives hope in times of suffering and fear.”

Sister Beauty Digal of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph said the incident strengthened the faith of many believers in Kandhamal.

“The safe return of the young man reminds people never to lose hope,” she said. “God continues to guide and protect people even in dangerous situations.”