Hyderabad was rocked by distressing news today, when popular Telugu playback singer Kalpana allegedly attempted suicide at her Nizampet residence. The KPHB police, alerted by the local Residents’ Association after her home remained locked for two days, broke into the house on Tuesday evening. They discovered the 50-year-old singer unconscious and immediately rushed her to a private hospital. Doctors confirmed she had consumed sleeping pills, and while her condition is now reported as “out of danger,” she remains under observation. Further details are awaited as she regains consciousness.
Kalpana Raghavendra, a veteran of over 1,500 songs across South Indian cinema, is a beloved figure in the Telugu film industry. Known for her soulful collaborations with legends like Ilaiyaraaja and A.R. Rahman, she has also ventured into reality TV, notably Bigg Boss Telugu Season 1, and worked as a dubbing artist and actress. The news of her suicide attempt has left fans and colleagues reeling, with many expressing concern and support online.
Police are investigating the circumstances that led to this extreme step. Kalpana’s husband—identified as either Prasad or Prabhakar in reports—was in Chennai at the time but is reportedly en route to Hyderabad and may be questioned as part of the probe. Authorities are examining her phone and personal belongings for clues, though no definitive motive has surfaced. In a past interview, Kalpana had candidly shared struggles from an earlier suicide attempt after her divorce, when she faced the challenge of raising three children alone. This history has fueled speculation about underlying personal distress, though nothing is confirmed.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on Kalpana’s recovery. Her contributions to music have long been cherished, and this incident has sparked conversations about mental health and recognition for artists. The industry and her admirers anxiously await positive news of her well-being.