A Class 7 student in Bengaluru has tragically died by suicide, prompting a police investigation into a possible connection with the web series 'Death Note'. The 14-year-old boy, identified as Gandhaar, was found dead at his residence in Banagirinagar, South Bengaluru on Monday.
Gandhaar's father, Ganesh Prasad, a musician, and his elder brother, a degree student, discovered the body in his room around 5:40 AM. His mother, Savitha, a well-known folk singer, was in Australia for a performance at the time. According to police reports, Gandhaar hanged himself from the window grill of his room with a towel.
Authorities found a suicide note left behind by Gandhaar, in which he apologized to his family. The note read, "Dear family, whoever is reading this, please do not cry, as I am already in heaven… I did this to make this house a better place… Please forgive me for every sin and misdeed I have created and done… Please tell all of my friends that I love them all, including my school friends. I will miss you all very much. Goodbye amma,”. He also expressed his love for his friends and said he felt happy to have lived 14 years.
Police are exploring all possible angles, including the potential influence of the 'Death Note' web series. While details about the specific link to the series have not been disclosed, the investigation suggests concerns about its impact on the young boy.
The CK Achukattu police have registered a case of unnatural death and are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the suicide. Gandhaar's body has been shifted to KIMS hospital for a postmortem examination, which will be conducted upon his mother's arrival. Police said that Gaandhar appeared normal Sunday night and dined with his father and elder brother.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the potential influence of media on young minds. It also highlights the need for parents and educators to be vigilant about the content children are consuming and to have open conversations about their feelings and struggles.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111.