Maharashtra IT Intern Drowns at Chennai's Golden Beach in Tragic Selfie Incident
A 23-year-old IT intern from Maharashtra, Mayuri Chaudhari, tragically drowned at Chennai's Golden Beach on Saturday after being swept out to sea while attempting to click a selfie. The incident occurred just two hours after she had spoken to her mother on the phone, leaving her family devastated.
Details of the Fatal Beach Outing
Mayuri Chaudhari, hailing from Varthi village in Bhandara district, eastern Maharashtra, was part of a group of approximately 26 interns from Maharashtra working in Chennai. On their day off, the group visited Golden Beach along Puducherry Road, within the limits of Kanthattur police station.
While most of the interns remained safely on the shore, three individuals—Mayuri, Jay Patil from Jalgaon district, and another intern named Raj Kedari—ventured close to the water's edge, reportedly to take photographs. They were suddenly hit by a massive wave measuring 10 to 15 feet in height, which pulled them into the rough waters amid strong undercurrents.
Immediate Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
Local rescue teams, including Tamil Nadu police, fire services, and Coast Guard personnel, immediately launched a comprehensive rescue operation. Mayuri's body was recovered shortly after the incident, and she was confirmed dead at the scene. Raj Kedari was successfully pulled to safety and is reported to be in stable condition.
However, Jay Patil remains missing as of the second day, with intensive search efforts continuing along the coastline. District officials from Bhandara are coordinating closely with Chennai authorities to assist the affected families during this difficult time.
Family Background and Official Response
Mayuri's father, Harishchandra Chaudhari, who works with a nationalised bank, shared that his daughter had recently earned her MTech degree from a reputed college in Nanded. She was selected for an internship with IT major Cognizant in Chennai in February this year. Her elder brother, Shailendra, is employed in Nagpur.
Upon learning of the tragedy, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis immediately contacted Tamil Nadu authorities. He personally monitored the ongoing rescue and search operations, urging the Tamil Nadu government to expedite efforts to locate Jay Patil. The CM expressed profound sorrow over Mayuri's death, conveyed heartfelt condolences to her family, and assured them of complete support from the state administration.
Known Dangers of Golden Beach
Golden Beach is notorious for its unpredictable high waves and dangerous rip currents, with several similar drowning incidents recorded in the past. Authorities have repeatedly warned visitors about the risks associated with venturing too close to the water, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Relatives of both Mayuri and Jay Patil have rushed to Chennai, with Mayuri's family traveling from Nagpur to receive her body. The community mourns the loss of a bright young professional and hopes for the safe recovery of the missing intern as rescue teams persevere in their efforts.
