The unprecedented rise in cases during the second wave of COVID-19 in India unembellished life-threatening consequences as demand-supply gaps were increased many folds. It led to a significant constraint on the existing medical supplies. Additionally, an unprecedented rise in mortality was observed in the unvaccinated young and middle-aged population. An evidence-based observation and experience including the challenges faced by intensivists as to why the second wave was more dangerous than the first one, could help in identifying the potential areas to target with future control strategies.