Miss World Black Beauty Winner, Dies by Suicide

July 14, 2025 7:32 pm

July 14, 2025

The Indian beauty and fashion industry is mourning the tragic passing of San Rachel, a 26-year-old model from Puducherry, widely known as a “Miss World Black Beauty” winner. Reports indicate San Rachel, whose real name was Sankara Priya, died by suspected suicide on Sunday, July 13th, sending shockwaves through her community and igniting urgent conversations around mental health, financial pressures, and beauty standards in India.

A Champion Against Colorism Gone Too Soon

San Rachel was more than just a beauty queen; she was a vocal advocate against colorism and a champion for body positivity and inclusivity within the often-criticized Indian beauty landscape. Her journey was marked by numerous accolades, including:

Miss Puducherry 2020
Miss Best Attitude 2019
Miss Dark Queen Tamil Nadu 2019
Queen of Madras (2022 & 2023)
And the prestigious “Miss World Black Beauty” title.

She used her platform to defy conventional beauty norms, challenging the pervasive bias towards lighter skin tones. Her work resonated deeply with many, inspiring young women to embrace their natural beauty and self-acceptance.

Battling Hidden Struggles: Debt and Depression

Police sources suggest San Rachel had been struggling with severe financial debt and depression. She was reportedly admitted to JIPMER in Puducherry after consuming an overdose of sleeping pills on July 5th, ultimately succumbing to her condition on July 13th. A suicide note was reportedly recovered, stating that no one should be held responsible for her death. Authorities have ordered a Tahsildar-level inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her demise.

This heartbreaking incident underscores the often-unseen pressures faced by individuals in the public eye, particularly within industries that demand high levels of physical and financial investment. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for robust support systems.

Industry Reacts: A Call for Greater Support

San Rachel’s sudden passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and reflection from fellow models, designers, and industry insiders. Many are highlighting her courage in challenging the status quo and are calling for greater attention to the mental well-being of professionals in the demanding world of fashion and entertainment.

Her legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for her unwavering commitment to redefining beauty and her powerful voice against discrimination. As the investigation continues, her story serves as a poignant reminder that success on the surface does not always reflect battles fought within.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. Here are some resources: