New Delhi: In a heartbreaking turn of events, Shyamalayamma, a 62-year-old woman who captivated the nation with her incredible survival story earlier this year, was found dead by suicide at her home in Kulakkada, Kerala.
The tragic incident happened on Monday morning. Her tragic end has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many grappling with the stark contrast between her past resilience and her final despair.
Shyamalayamma’s name first became synonymous with extraordinary survival in May when she was swept away by the raging Kallada River during a flash flood. Carried by the relentless current for over 10 kilometres, she was miraculously rescued by locals at the Mangalassery boat jetty.
Her ordeal, which saw her fight for survival against the overwhelming force of nature, became a viral sensation. Her strength and determination in the face of adversity garnered widespread admiration and praise, transforming her into a symbol of resilience for many.
However, this inspiring narrative took a devastating turn on Monday when her son, Manoj Kumar, found her lifeless body hanging in a room adjacent to the kitchen of their home, Manoj Bhavan, in Puthur, Kollam. The discovery was made around 7:30 AM upon his return from a short trip to the local shop.
He immediately alerted neighbours, who rushed her to the Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital, but sadly, medical professionals could only pronounce her dead upon arrival. A ward boy, Harikrishnan, assisted in transporting her to the hospital, and after initial procedures, her body was cremated within the family compound.
The circumstances surrounding Shyamalayamma’s suicide remain shrouded in uncertainty. It is suspected that she may have taken her own life the previous night while her husband, Gopinathan Pillai, a rubber tapper, was away at work. The Kerala Police are currently investigating to determine the exact circumstances surrounding her death. The unexpected and tragic end to her life has left the community reeling in shock and sorrow.
