Mangaluru, May 28, 2025: A tragic accident on Wednesday morning claimed the life of a professional photographer when his car overturned and plunged into a roadside stormwater drain near Kodikal Cross on the Mangaluru–Udupi National Highway.
The victim has been identified as 48-year-old Surya Narayan, a well-known figure in the local photography community. He was reportedly en route to cover an event at the Nandikeshwara Temple in Panambur when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road and crash into the drain.
Local residents rushed to the scene and attempted to rescue him. Although he was quickly transported to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries en route.
Surya Narayan had worked for several years at Kediyoor Varn Lab in Udupi and had recently launched his own photography studio near Uppala in the Kasargod district. Affectionately known as ‘Var Surya’ in Udupi, he was admired for his warm personality and strong community ties.