Kannada actress Ashika Ranganath's cousin dies by suicide, family alleges harassment by drug-addicted boyfriend - Reports

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains sensitive content related to substance abuse, suicide and harassment. Reader discretion is advised.

Achala, the 22-year-old cousin of Kannada actress Ashika Ranganath, was found dead by suicide on November 22 at a relative’s home in Bengaluru’s Panduranga Nagar. Reports suggest she took the extreme step after facing sexual harassment from her boyfriend, who was allegedly a drug addict.thn one

Family alleges harassment and evidence

As per Navbharat Times report, Achala’s relatives hold proof implicating her boyfriend, yet authorities have made no arrests so far. An engineering degree holder, Achala reportedly faced coercion from Mayank, a far-off family member who faked romantic interest, to enter a premarital physical relationship, turning to harassment once she turned him down. Further reports revealed that Mayank, who struggled with drug addiction, began physically attacking and mentally tormenting Achala after she refused his advances. He also harassed her relentlessly with frequent phone calls. Achala was the daughter of Ashika Ranganath’s maternal uncle.

Aunt blames continuous torment

Aashika's aunt claimed that her daughter Achala died by suicide due to the continuous harassment she faced from Mayank. A case has been registered against Mayank and his mother, Maina, at the Hassan City Police Station, and Achala's parents are demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible for their daughter’s death.

Parents demand swift justice

Achala’s mother, aunt to actress Ashika Ranganath, blamed relentless torment from Mayank for pushing her daughter to suicide. Authorities at Hassan City Police Station have filed charges against Mayank and his mother, Maina. Her parents urge prompt arrests to hold accountable those behind the heartbreaking loss.

Actress maintains silence

As of now, Ashika has remained silent and issued no public statement on her cousin Achala's death as of December 1, 2025.

Birthday post for mother

Earlier today, Ashika shared never-before-seen pictures with her mother on social media while extending birthday wishes. She wrote, "Mommy bear, happy birthday. You’re home, you’re strength — the woman who holds our whole world together. Thank you for loving us in every way: funny, dramatic, protective and endlessly caring. To your childlike joy and your fierce love — we’d be lost without you."

Recent film appearance

On the work front, Ashika Ranganath recently featured in the Kannada film ‘Gatha Vaibhava’, marking SS Dushyanth's debut on screen, with its theatrical release on November 14.

Disclaimer: This topic involves sensitive content. If you or someone you know is experiencing harassment or struggling with alcohol or substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, or mental illness, please seek immediate help. Reach out to a mental health specialist, NGO, or trusted individual. Several helplines are available to offer assistance.

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