Jujitsu champion Rohini Kalam dies by suicide; family cites work-related stress

International jujitsu player and martial arts coach Rohini Kalam, who represented India at the Asian Games, was found dead at her home in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, on Sunday. Police said initial findings point to suicide. She was 35.

The incident took place at the family’s house in Arjun Nagar, Radhaganj, where Rohini’s sister Roshni Kalam found her hanging in her room. She was taken to a nearby hospital but declared dead on arrival. No suicide note was recovered from the spot.

According to police, Rohini had been working as a martial arts coach at a private school in Ashta and was reportedly under intense work-related stress. Her sister alleged that the school’s principal had been harassing her, adding, “She often seemed disturbed after speaking on the phone about her job.”

Her family said Rohini had recently undergone stomach surgery, had been unwell, and was disappointed over not being selected for the Vikram Award despite repeated attempts. She was also preparing for the civil services exam. Rohini had a distinguished sporting career, representing India at the 19th Asian Games, the World Games in Birmingham, and several Asian Jujitsu Championships, where she won multiple medals.