A man who died in a rare bear attack in northern Saskatchewan on May 8 aspired to become a professional mixed martial arts fighter, his brother revealed. Hrishikesh Koloth, 27, originally from Kerala, India, was employed at a uranium exploration site when he was attacked by a black bear.
Having practiced MMA for more than ten years, Hrishikesh honed his skills in India before moving to Canada three years ago. He resided in Penticton, B.C., with his elder brother Arjun Koloth.
Hrishikesh was employed as a technician on contract at the Zoo Bay property managed by Vancouver-based UraniumX Discovery Corp. The incident occurred in close proximity to Nordbye Lake, approximately 850 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon.
Describing his brother as a fighter and a dreamer, Arjun shared that Hrishikesh aimed to compete in the UFC. Trained at Skoden Martial Arts in Penticton, he was held in high regard by his peers. Arjun expressed deep sadness over the tragic turn of events.
Arjun recounted how a sudden visit by the RCMP at 4 a.m. PDT shattered his world. The bear responsible for the attack was shot and killed by a civilian on site, and its body was sent for examination to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon.
UraniumX Discovery Corp confirmed the fatality of one of its contractors and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family. Arjun mentioned that his brother was scheduled to begin a role as a boxing coach in Vancouver the following month, emphasizing that for Hrishikesh, the job was merely a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal of fighting.
Remembered for his humility, fearlessness, and unwavering love for his family, Hrishikesh was described as someone who cherished his parents and strived to provide for them. Arjun highlighted his brother’s indomitable spirit and passion for combat sports.
Arjun is presently in Kerala for his brother’s funeral, standing by his family during this difficult time. He expressed his desire for Hrishikesh to be commemorated as a brave fighter and visionary individual who fearlessly pursued his dreams.
The fatal bear attack marks only the fourth recorded incident of its kind in Saskatchewan’s history. The previous fatality occurred in 2020 when Stephanie Blais, aged 44, lost her life near her family’s cabin north of Buffalo Narrows.
