Mangaluru was left in shock on Sunday, August 10, after K. Chandrashekar Rai Surikumaru (52), a seasoned swimming coach and lifeguard, lost his life to drowning at the municipal swimming pool in Ladyhill.
According to preliminary accounts, the pool had been closed to the public that day for routine maintenance and cleaning work. During this downtime, Rai is believed to have entered the water for personal swimming practice. Tragically, he failed to resurface, and efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful.
Rai was widely respected in local and national swimming circles. In 2023, he had earned a place in the Worldwide Book of Records by executing 28 underwater somersaults within a single minute — a feat achieved in the very same Ladyhill pool. Colleagues recall his remarkable stamina, discipline, and commitment to inspiring young swimmers.
Authorities have begun a formal police investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the mishap, including whether health factors or technical issues at the facility played a role.
The incident has deeply saddened the sporting community and local residents alike. Friends describe Rai as a passionate mentor who devoted decades to coaching, lifesaving, and competitive swimming, while still pushing his own limits in the water. His untimely passing serves as a reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can occur even for the most skilled professionals.