San Rechal Gandhi, Former Miss Puducherry and Advocate for Dark-Skinned Representation, Dies by Suicide at 26

-Anushka R.K. Pandey

San Rechal Gandhi, who was crowned Miss Puducherry in 2022 and was widely known for challenging colourism and racism in the fashion world, died by suicide on Sunday in Puducherry. She was just 26.

According to reports, Gandhi allegedly took an overdose of blood pressure medication at her home in Karamanikuppam. She was first taken to a government hospital, then moved to a private clinic, and later shifted to JIPMER, where she passed away.

The exact reason behind her decision is still being investigated, but early reports suggest she had been under severe financial stress. Just hours before her death, she reportedly visited her father asking for help, but was turned away. Police say she had sold her jewellery to support her career, and the financial pressure had become overwhelming.

Gandhi wasn’t just a model or a beauty queen — she was a strong voice for inclusivity in an industry still biased toward fair skin. With titles like Miss Dark Queen Tamil Nadu 2019 and Queen of Madras 2022, she used her growing platform — with over 180,000 Instagram followers — to speak up for dark-skinned women and push back against outdated beauty standards. She also worked as a pageant coach, mentoring young women to embrace themselves without apology.

She had been married for just over a year. Police are also looking into whether marital issues may have played a role in her death. A suicide note found at the scene stated clearly that no one should be held responsible.

Tributes have poured in online, with fans, fellow models, and activists mourning her loss and honoring the legacy she leaves behind — one of courage, authenticity, and relentless advocacy for those who rarely feel seen.

A full investigation is underway.