Satna Diocese Mourns Priest Who Died After Cardiac Arrest While Riding Motorcycle

Satna, September 21, 2026: The Diocese of Satna is mourning the death of Fr. Martin Punnolil, who died on Monday evening after suffering a cardiac arrest while riding a motorcycle in Sidhi district of Madhya Pradesh.

Fr. Punnolil reportedly suffered the medical emergency while riding on a slope in the Chaupal area of Sidhi. He fell from the motorcycle and was taken to a hospital in Sidhi in critical condition. Despite medical attention, he was declared dead at around 5 pm. Cardiac arrest was reported as the cause of death.

Postmortem formalities were being completed in Sidhi, following which his mortal remains were expected to be brought to Satna.

The Diocese has scheduled a Holy Mass for the deceased priest at 9 am on Tuesday, September 22, in Satna. The Mass will bring together clergy and faithful to pray for the repose of his soul and remember his ministry.

The mortal remains are expected to be taken to Kerala by noon on Tuesday, subject to confirmation from his family.

Fr. Punnolil's funeral is scheduled to take place at his home parish in Rajagiri, Palakkad, Kerala, at 10 am on Friday, September 25. Family members, clergy, religious and faithful are expected to attend the funeral rites.

The sudden death has left the Diocese of Satna mourning the loss of a priest who died following an unexpected medical emergency while travelling.

The Diocese has appealed to the faithful to pray for the repose of Fr. Punnolil's soul and to remember his family and the diocesan community in their prayers.

By Catholic Connect Reporter