Sankara Priya, a 23-year-old model widely known by her stage name San Rachel, has died by suicide, according to police. A familiar face in Tamil Nadu’s beauty pageant scene, Sankara Priya had won several accolades, including Miss Puducherry 2020, Miss Best Attitude 2019, Miss Dark Queen Tamil Nadu 2019, and Queen of Madras in both 2022 and 2023.
She had been residing in Puducherry with her husband Sathya, whom she married last year.
Struggles with depression and financial stress
Local sources suggest that Sankara Priya had been battling depression in recent months, reportedly driven by mounting financial debts. On June 6, she allegedly consumed sleeping pills in a alleged suicide attempt. Her parents rushed her to the Puducherry Government Hospital, but she reportedly left the facility without notifying anyone, refusing treatment.
Over the following days, her condition deteriorated. She experienced severe body swelling and was first admitted to a private hospital in Puducherry. As her health worsened, she was transferred to Jipmer (Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research) for advanced care.
Despite medical assistance, she passed away on Sunday.
Investigation underway
Her body has been moved to the Puducherry Government Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Sankara Priya’s passing has sent shockwaves through the regional modelling and pageant communities, with many expressing condolences online and calling for more awareness around mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please seek help. Support is available through mental health professionals and helplines.