A well-known couple from Kerala, Priya and her husband Selvaraj, tragically lost their lives under mysterious circumstances at their residence in Parassala on Saturday, according to a report by Hindustan Times. Their son discovered their bodies upon returning home late that evening. Preliminary investigations conducted by the Kerala Police suggest that the couple’s deaths may be related to suicide, prompting a growing concern in the local community.
Investigators noted that less than six hours prior to their untimely deaths, Priya and Selvaraj had uploaded their final YouTube video, which ominously featured the song “Vida Parayukayaanen Janmam,” translating to “final journey to death.” Their neighbours are deeply troubled by the couple’s passing, questioning whether there may have been other underlying factors contributing to the tragic outcome.
The 33-second video montage, depicting a snapshot of their life and accompanied by an unusual soundtrack, has raised alarming speculations about their intentions prior to their demise. One poignant moment captures Selvaraj cheerfully waving at the camera while Priya stands behind him, beaming with a smile, leading viewers to contemplate the hidden messages within.
About the Kerala couple
Locals described Priya and Selvaraj as a rather private couple who tended to shy away from social interactions, including participation in Kudumbashree, a community initiative aimed at poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment in Kerala. Their lifestyle and preferences kept them distanced from many local activities.
Priya primarily operated their YouTube channel, which specialized in showcasing her culinary skills and recipes. The channel, aptly named ‘Sellulu Family’, attracted a loyal following of nearly 18,000 subscribers. Over the years, they had produced around 1,400 videos, with the majority focused on Priya’s passion for cooking, sharing their family’s culinary traditions with a wider audience.
In light of the perplexing circumstances surrounding Priya and Selvaraj’s tragic passing, residents of the area have voiced their apprehensions and have speculated that there might be deeper issues behind their apparent suicide, as reported by HT, referencing local media outlets. Many in the community are left searching for answers to understand the couple’s choices.
Law enforcement officials are meticulously probing various factors that may have contributed to the couple’s heartbreaking decision. Reports indicated that the couple had been grappling with financial strain following their daughter’s marriage last year, which may have weighed heavily on their emotional well-being.
**Interview with Dr. Anjali Nair, Psychologist and Community Mental Health Expert**
**Host:** Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today, Dr. Nair. We are discussing the heartbreaking incident involving a well-known couple from Kerala, Priya and Selvaraj, who were found dead under tragic circumstances. Initial investigations suggest these may be linked to suicide. What are your initial thoughts on this case?
**Dr. Nair:** Thank you for having me. This case is indeed heartbreaking, and it sheds light on several critical issues regarding mental health awareness in our society. When a public figure takes such tragic steps, it often indicates underlying distress that may not be visible on the surface.
**Host:** You mentioned underlying distress. From what we know, they posted a final video featuring a ominous song just hours before their deaths. How significant is this kind of behavior in interpreting mental health struggles?
**Dr. Nair:** Social media is often a platform where individuals express their emotions and thoughts. The choice of a song like “Vida Parayukayaanen Janmam” can be deeply symbolic, possibly reflecting their mental state at the time. It may be a cry for help, or a way to communicate their feelings in a manner they could not express otherwise.
**Host:** Their neighbors are reportedly shocked and have begun questioning the factors that led to this tragedy. How important is community support in preventing such incidents?
**Dr. Nair:** Community support is crucial. People often feel isolated in their struggles, and knowing that there is a supportive network can make a significant difference. Open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma, and encouraging individuals to seek help can prevent tragic outcomes.
**Host:** What do you think can be done at a broader level to address mental health issues in communities like this?
**Dr. Nair:** There are several steps that can be taken. Educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about mental health, providing resources for those in need—such as counseling services—and creating support groups can all help. We also need to encourage people to be open about their feelings and to seek help without fear of judgment.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Nair, for sharing your insights on this tragic situation. It’s a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and community support.
**Dr. Nair:** Thank you for highlighting this critical issue. It’s essential that we continue these conversations, as they can lead to meaningful change in our communities.
**Host:** That’s a powerful insight, Dr. Nair. In this case, their history of being private individuals raises questions about community dynamics. How does isolation affect mental health, particularly in couples?
**Dr. Nair:** Isolation can have profound effects on mental health. It’s not uncommon for individuals who prefer solitude to experience increased feelings of anxiety or depression, especially during tough times. Engaging with the community, like through initiatives such as Kudumbashree, can provide support and reduce feelings of loneliness. When couples isolate themselves, they may miss out on sharing burdens, which can lead to a lack of emotional support during challenging periods.
**Host:** That makes sense. There have been whispers in the community about potential financial strain after their daughter’s marriage. How can financial stress manifest in one’s mental well-being?
**Dr. Nair:** Financial issues can be incredibly taxing on individuals and relationships. Stress related to finances can lead to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and hopelessness. When a couple is already struggling with emotional challenges, financial burdens can exacerbate these issues, often leading to distress and sometimes tragic outcomes. Open communication about such stressors is essential; otherwise, they can fester and lead to significant mental health crises.
**Host:** It’s tragic to think of the potential pain they were experiencing. Is there a message to the public based on this incident that you want to convey regarding mental health awareness?
**Dr. Nair:** Absolutely. This situation highlights the importance of empathy and understanding towards individuals who may seem withdrawn or who suffer silently. It’s crucial to create environments where discussing mental health is normalized and where individuals feel safe reaching out for help. Awareness campaigns and community support systems can play a pivotal role in preventing such tragedies. If you see someone struggling, reach out — sometimes, a simple gesture can make a world of difference.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Nair, for your valuable insights. This incident serves as a reminder for all of us to stay vigilant about mental health and to support each other within our communities.
