Bengaluru: A three-year-old child tragically died after accidentally falling into a water pool during his mother’s maternity photoshoot in the city, police said on Monday. The incident has shocked family members and raised questions about safety at such events.
Tragedy unfolds at photo studio
The child, identified as Lakshmeer, was the son of Charan and Swathi, residents of Amruthahalli in Bengaluru. According to police, the incident took place on Saturday afternoon when Swathi — who is eight months pregnant — had gone for a maternity photoshoot at a studio in Giddenahalli under the Madanayakanahalli police limits.
While the shoot was underway, Lakshmeer was reportedly playing nearby. Officials said that for about 15 minutes, those at the location did not notice that the toddler had wandered off. When Swathi realised he was missing, a frantic search was launched.
Child slips into water pool
Police said Lakshmeer had slipped and fallen into a small water pool created for the photoshoot inside the premises of Shire Studio in Giddenahalli. The artificial pond reportedly held several feet of water. By the time the child’s absence was noticed and people located him in the pool, he had already drowned.
Bystanders and staff at the studio immediately pulled the boy from the water and rushed him to a nearby hospital. However, doctors declared him brought dead. A post-mortem examination was carried out at the Nelamangala Government Hospital to determine the exact cause of death, police said.
Case registered, probe underway
The Madanayakanahalli police have registered an Unnatural Death Report (UDR) and begun an investigation into the incident, including whether proper safety measures were in place at the photoshoot location. Authorities are examining the sequence of events to determine if negligence played a role.
Senior officers also noted that such artificial water features at photo studios should be secured, especially when children are present. Evidence gathered from the scene, including statements from people at the shoot and any available CCTV footage, will form part of the inquiry.
Father expected to return
Officials said the child’s father, who is working abroad, is expected to return to Bengaluru on Monday to complete the formalities and be with his family during this difficult time.
The tragic death of Lakshmeer has stirred deep grief among relatives and friends, with many questioning safety protocols at event venues, especially those involving children. Police have urged event organisers and parents to ensure that children are supervised at all times near water bodies, whether permanent or temporary.