Young Scientist's Tragic Fate moves Bishop to Pen Poetic Tribute

Srikakulam, September 19, 2024: The TCBC Commission for Tribal Affairs Chairman Bishop Rayarala Vijayakumar, has penned a heartfelt song in tribute to the award-winning young scientist from Khammam, Dr. Nunavath Ashwini, who tragically lost her life in floods in Telangana early on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The song, written in Telugu, was composed and released this morning by Bishop Rayarala, who is also the bishop of Srikakulam.

The bishop expressed deep shock at the untimely tragedy that befell the promising 26-year-old scientist, who hailed from Gangaram Thanda in Singareni Mandal, Khammam district. "This song is a tribute to our beloved daughter, who has flown away from us like a star in the sky. Her loss is irreplaceable," the bishop remarked. He also urged the Chief Minister of Telangana to institute a scholarship for hardworking tribal students in honour of Dr. Ashwini.

Dr. Nunavath Ashwini was a promising young scientist affiliated with the ICAR — National Institute of Biotic Stress Management in Raipur. Tragically, she lost her life after being swept away by floodwaters in Telangana following a night of heavy rain that caused severe flooding in the region.

On the fateful day, Dr. Ashwini and her father, Nunawat Motilal, residents of Gangaram Thanda, were en route to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad when their vehicle was swept away by the overflowing Akeruvagu stream near Purushothamaiah gudem in Maripeda Mandal. The stream had breached a bridge, leading their car to plunge into the rushing waters.

In a chilling final call to friends and family, Ashwini and her father described the rapidly rising water inside their car, trapping them with no means of escape. The call abruptly ended, leaving their loved ones in anguish and uncertainty.

After hours of frantic searching, Dr. Ashwini’s body was discovered on Sunday near the Akeruvagu Bridge, marking a tragic conclusion to the search for the young scientist. Rescue teams continue their efforts to locate her father, Motilal, who remains missing.

The song in Dr. Ashwini’s memory can be accessed here:

https://youtu.be/rpG6cjPhVlg?si=cpsf-7I3sHTaUD00. 

This tribute reflects the deep sense of loss felt by the community and serves as a reminder of Dr. Ashwini’s contributions and the tragic circumstances surrounding her passing. 

The TCBC continues to express condolences and support to the grieving family during this difficult time.

By Fr. Kampan Chinnam