Follow TNM’s WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
A 27-year-old woman identified as Bhuvaneswari, died by suicide at her parents’ house in Chennai, allegedly after facing continuous harassment from her husband’s family over dowry. The victim had completed three degrees and previously worked as a teacher.
Bhuvaneswari’s mother told the media that her daughter had been facing harassment from her husband Janakiraman’s family, who allegedly demanded additional dowry.
Bhuvaneswari married Janakiraman on September 8, 2024. Her family had given her 50 sovereigns of gold and her husband 20 sovereigns as dowry.
On August 16, the couple celebrated their son’s first birthday. According to Bhuvaneswari’s family, Janakiraman’s family demanded an additional 20 sovereigns of gold for the occasion. Her family, however, gave two sovereigns, following which an argument allegedly broke out.
Last Thursday, Janakiraman dropped Bhuvaneswari at her parents’ house for a temple festival. He later called her on Saturday and allegedly told her to remain at her parents’ house.
While her family had gone to the temple for the festival, Bhuvaneswari allegedly attempted suicide. She was rushed to Tambaram Government Hospital, where she died.
Her family subsequently informed the Pallikaranai police about the incident. Further investigation is underway.
This story was written by a student interning with TNM.
If you are aware of anyone facing mental health issues or feeling suicidal, please provide help. Here are some helpline numbers of suicide-prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.
Tamil Nadu
State health department's suicide helpline: 104
Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050 (listed as the sole suicide prevention helpline in Tamil Nadu)
Andhra Pradesh
Life Suicide Prevention: 78930 78930
Roshni: 9166202000, 9127848584
Karnataka
Sahai (24-hour): 080 65000111, 080 65000222
Kerala
Maithri: 0484 2540530
Chaithram: 0484 2361161
Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.
Telangana
State government's suicide prevention (tollfree): 104
Roshni: 040 66202000, 6620200
SEVA: 09441778290, 040 27504682 (between 9 am and 7 pm
Aasara offers support to individuals and families during an emotional crisis, for those dealing with mental health issues and suicidal ideation, and to those undergoing trauma after the suicide of a loved one.
24x7 Helpline: 9820466726
Click here for working helplines across India.