Popular Odia singer Humane Sagar passed away on Monday while undergoing treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at 36. According to a medical bulletin issued by AIIMS, Sagar had been admitted on Friday after being diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Despite intensive treatment, his condition worsened rapidly.
Sagar was one of Odisha’s most popular playback singers, known for his emotional voice and hit songs. His sudden death has left fans, colleagues and the Odia film industry in deep shock. Many have taken to social media to express grief and offer condolences.
What is bilateral pneumonia and its warning signs?
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs, causing fluid or pus buildup. When both lungs are infected, it becomes bilateral pneumonia, a more dangerous form because it reduces the lungs’ ability to supply enough oxygen to the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this condition can turn severe very quickly and requires urgent medical care.
Early signs of pneumonia often include a persistent fever, chest pain, cough with phlegm and breathlessness. Many people also feel extreme fatigue, weakness and rapid breathing. In severe cases, oxygen levels drop, causing bluish lips or fingertips. Doctors say these symptoms should never be ignored, especially if they worsen over a short period.
As per World Health Organization (WHO), pneumonia remains one of the leading infectious causes of death globally, particularly when both lungs are affected. Hospitalisation and oxygen support are often required in serious cases.
What is Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) and its warning signs?
According to the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), ACLF occurs when someone with chronic liver disease suddenly experiences a severe decline in liver function. This sudden worsening can trigger multiple organ failures and is considered a medical emergency.
The Mayo Clinic explains that ACLF can be triggered by infections, alcohol-related liver injury, hepatitis flare-ups or other sudden stressors. Because the liver can no longer filter toxins or support essential body functions, symptoms appear quickly and often look like everyday issues—making them easy to miss.
Common signs of liver failure include yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), persistent vomiting, abdominal swelling or pain, and sudden fatigue. Many people also experience confusion, drowsiness or changes in behaviour due to toxin buildup. Dark urine, very pale stools and easy bruising are also red flags. Health experts warn that these symptoms should be taken seriously, especially if a person already has underlying liver problems.
What is Multi-Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS)?
The Cleveland Clinic states that multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) occurs when two or more organs begin to fail at the same time, usually after a severe infection, widespread inflammation or shock. It is one of the most critical complications seen in intensive care units.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), MODS happens when the body’s inflammatory response becomes so extreme that blood flow to vital organs drops. This can lead to the heart, lungs, kidneys or brain shutting down. Treatment usually involves ventilator support, dialysis, blood pressure medicines and continuous monitoring.
Sagar’s condition and final hours
AIIMS doctors said Sagar was already in a critical state when he was admitted. Bilateral pneumonia made breathing extremely difficult, while ACLF weakened his liver. As both conditions progressed, his organs began shutting down, leading to multi-organ dysfunction.
