(Disclaimer: This story has mentions of suicide)
Kannada television actor Soujanya was found dead, allegedly by suicide, at her residence in Kumbalgodu in the outskirts of Bengaluru on Thursday, according to a report in Times of India. She was 25.
Soujanya, whose real name is Savi Madappa, hailed from Kushalnagar in Kodagu district of Karnataka. She has predominantly acted in television serials, and also appeared in films such as Chaukattu Fun and Nanobbne Olleyavnu.
According to the TOI report, after preliminary investigations, the police stated that the actor’s remains were found hanging in her room and they have identified her by means of a tattoo on one of her legs. While police are still probing into the actor’s death, officials also reported that they have retrieved a note stating that she is solely responsible for her decision.
The four-page note, signed with both her real and stage names, mentions that Soujanya had suffered mental distress. The late actor also stated that she would like to thank all those who had helped her so far, and also asked forgiveness from her parents.
The police were informed about the actor’s death at around 11 am on Thursday, as per The News Minute. The report notes that the actor was living by herself at her apartment for the past year and a half.
While the preliminary probe by the police points to a death by suicide, the cause of death can only be determined after a post-mortem examination.
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It is to be noted that Soujanya’s death comes months after Jayashree Ramaiah, a former contestant of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 3, died by suicide in January. Another actor from the Kannada film industry, and former contestant of the same reality show, Chaitra Kotoor, attempted to take her life in April.
If you or someone you know is in need of support for suicidal thoughts or behaviour, please reach out to the following helpline numbers:
AASRA- 24×7 Helpline (Hindi and English): +91-9820466726
KIRAN- 24×7 Helpline: 1800-599-0019