LUCKNOW, May 5 -- The plan to revive a dream turned into a nightmare on Saturday evening when a fire engulfed the Sweety Food Factory in Ganganagar, Amausi. The unit had reopened just a few days ago after remaining shut for about 18 months.

The blaze claimed the lives of a factory owner Akhilesh Kumar, 45, and a worker Abrar, 42, dashing the hopes of two families who were rebuilding their lives.

Akhilesh Kumar died of suffocation in the smoke, while Abrar's body was found charred beyond recognition as the factory became the site of tragedy, grief, and irreparable loss.

Akhilesh's son Hrithik stood helplessly as the flames engulfed the building.

"Smoke was rising, people were screaming, but I couldn't see papa. I kept shouting, I asked...