Iraganaboyina Chandu, a 26-year-old from Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh, died by suicide in Chicago on Thursday after months of unsuccessful job hunting following the completion of his master’s degree in the United States.
Chandu had recently finished his postgraduate studies at DePaul University in Chicago and had been searching for employment for several weeks without success, according to reports. Family sources and community members said he had been under considerable emotional strain — distressed over his financial dependence on his family in Kurnool, and particularly troubled by the hardships faced by his father, who works as a security guard.
He was found dead at his home in the US. Investigative details have not been made public. A friend revealed that Chandu had scheduled emails and messages to several acquaintances before his death, which have since been handed over to the police.
Community Rallies, Over $76,000 Raised
Members of the Indian community in the US launched a fundraiser with a target of $1,20,000 to help the family repatriate Chandu’s body and manage outstanding debt.
“The cost of international repatriation from the US to India, including funeral home services, legal permits, and transportation, is approximately $25,000. This is an expense his family simply cannot afford on their own,” the fundraising page stated. Any funds raised beyond $25,000 will go directly to his parents to help them manage debt. Within two days of the campaign going live, over $76,000 had been raised.
Ministers Step In
A social media user reached out to Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh seeking assistance in bringing Chandu home. Lokesh responded with condolences and wrote to Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, requesting that he ensure “smooth and hassle-free transport of the mortal remains.”
Naidu confirmed he is coordinating with the relevant authorities to expedite the process. “We will do our best to support the family in these tough times,” he said.
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