Kannada TV actress Nandini CM dies by suicide in Bengaluru

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains references to suicide.

Kannada television actor Nandini CM, aged 26, was found dead by suicide at a paying guest (PG) accommodation in Kengeri, Bengaluru, police confirmed on Monday. An Unnatural Death Report (UDR No. 76/2025) has been registered by the Kengeri Police under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Act, 2023.

According to the police, Nandini’s body was discovered hanging inside her PG room sometime between the late hours of December 28 and the early morning of December 29. The incident came to light around 9:15 am after friends and PG staff raised an alarm when she failed to respond to calls.

Nandini had been living in Bengaluru and working in Kannada television serials since 2019. She completed her pre-university education in Ballari and later enrolled in an engineering course at RR Institute in Hesaraghatta. However, she discontinued her studies to pursue a career in acting and underwent professional training in Rajarajeshwari Nagar. In August 2025, she moved to the PG accommodation in Kengeri where she was found dead.

Circumstances surrounding the death

Police said that on the evening of December 28, Nandini visited a friend’s house and returned to her PG around 11:23 pm. When repeated calls to her phone went unanswered later that night, the friend informed the PG manager. Staff members reportedly forced open the locked room and found her hanging by a veil cloth from the window grille. Emergency personnel who arrived at the scene declared her dead.

During the preliminary investigation, police recovered a diary entry in which Nandini spoke about her strong desire to continue acting and her reluctance to take up a government job offered to her on compassionate grounds following her father’s death in 2023. Family members have stated that she often felt misunderstood and under pressure regarding her career choices, but they have not expressed any suspicion of foul play.

Investigation underway

The Kengeri Police, under the supervision of PSI Hanumantha Hadimani, are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading to her death. Officials said all aspects of the case will be examined before arriving at a final conclusion.

Industry reaction

Nandini’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the Kannada television industry. Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to express grief and condolences, remembering her as a committed artiste with aspirations to grow in the field. Formal reactions from industry peers are still awaited.

DISCLAIMER:If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, or mental illness, please seek professional help immediately from a doctor, mental health expert, or NGO. Helplines are also available.