PUDUCHERRY: San Rachel, a rising model and powerful voice for inclusivity in the Indian beauty industry, allegedly died by suicide on Sunday at the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (Jipmer). She was 26 years old.
According to police sources, Rachel was admitted to Jipmer after reportedly consuming an overdose of sleeping pills on July 5. Initially treated at the Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital, she was later moved to a private hospital in Moolakulam before being transferred to Jipmer due to deteriorating health. A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Monday.
An alleged suicide note was found at her father’s residence, in which she reportedly stated that no one should be held responsible for her death. Authorities have ordered a Tahsildar-level inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Born and raised in Puducherry, Rachel lost her mother at a young age and was brought up by her father, D Gandhi, 57. Despite facing rejections early in her career due to her dark skin tone, Rachel rose through the ranks in the modelling world, driven by her father’s support and her own determination.
She went on to win numerous accolades including Miss Dark Queen Tamil Nadu (2019), Miss Best Attitude (2019), Miss Puducherry (2020/2021), and Queen of Madras (2022 and 2023). She was also the runner-up at Miss Africa Golden India (2023). Rachel represented India at several international platforms in London, Germany, France, and South Africa.
Beyond the runway, Rachel founded Rose Noire Fashion Grooming, a mentorship platform for aspiring models. She frequently used her social media presence to challenge colourism and promote self-love and confidence, especially among young women facing discrimination for their skin tone.
Rachel was recently married and had been living with her husband in Puducherry at the time of the incident. Her untimely death has left the fashion and social advocacy communities in shock and mourning.
Her life and work have sparked fresh conversations around mental health, inclusivity, and the pressures faced by public figures and activists.
