On the morning of May 16, 2025, residents of Manjari Khurd were shocked to learn of the deaths of a local fruit vendor and his wife. According to police reports, the vendor, identified as 42-year-old Ramesh Pawar (name changed for privacy), was found dead alongside his wife, Sunita, in their modest home.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Ramesh, unable to cope with mounting debts and financial stress, killed his wife before dying by suicide. The couple is survived by two young children, who were reportedly staying with relatives at the time of the incident.
Neighbors and acquaintances described Ramesh as a hardworking man who struggled to make ends meet in the face of rising costs, declining sales, and increasing debt. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic challenges had reportedly worsened the family’s financial situation, leaving them with few options for relief.
Friends noted that Ramesh had become withdrawn and anxious in recent months, often expressing despair about his inability to repay loans and provide for his family. Despite efforts to seek help from local moneylenders and community members, the burden proved too much to bear.
The tragedy has left the Manjari Khurd community reeling, with many expressing shock and sorrow over the loss of a well-known family. Local leaders and social workers have called for increased awareness and support for families grappling with financial distress and mental health challenges.
“This is not just a personal tragedy, but a wake-up call for all of us. We need better support systems for those struggling with debt and mental health issues,” said a local social worker.
Across India, financial pressures have led to a rise in suicides among small business owners, farmers, and daily wage earners. The stigma surrounding mental health, combined with limited access to counseling and financial assistance, often leaves vulnerable individuals with nowhere to turn.
Pune police have registered a case of accidental death and are continuing their investigation. The children are currently in the care of relatives, and local authorities have promised to extend support to the bereaved family. Social organizations in Pune have also stepped forward, offering counseling and financial aid to help the family cope with their loss and rebuild their lives.
