Nandini CM, a rising Kannada-Tamil TV actor who chose acting over a government job, was found dead in Bengaluru.
Bengaluru: Kannada and Tamil television actor Nandini CM, aged 26, died by suicide in Bengaluru, police confirmed on Monday. She was found hanging in her paying guest accommodation in Kengeri, sending shockwaves across the regional television industry. Authorities have registered an unnatural death case and are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
Found Dead at PG Accommodation
The incident came to light during the night of December 28 and the early hours of December 29, 2025, at Insta Living PG in Kengeri, where Nandini had been staying. According to police, she did not respond to repeated phone calls, raising concern among her boyfriend and the PG staff. They alerted the police, who rushed to the spot and found her hanging inside her room. Doctors declared her dead at the scene.
The Kengeri Police registered an Unnatural Death Report under Section 194 of the BNSS Act, 2023. Police officials said they do not suspect any foul play at this stage.
Death Note Reveals Emotional Distress
Police recovered a handwritten diary and death note from Nandini’s room, which they are treating as key evidence. In the note, she reportedly spoke about emotional distress and depression. She mentioned facing pressure from her family on personal and career-related decisions.
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Police said the note does not blame any individual, and her family has also not made allegations against anyone.
Acting Journey and Career Growth
Nandini moved to Bengaluru in 2019 with the dream of building a career in acting. Over time, she steadily established herself in the television industry, appearing in several popular Kannada and Tamil serials. Specifically, her Kannada projects included Jeeva Hoovagide, Madhumagalu, Neenade Naa, and Sangharsha, which collectively helped her gain recognition and valuable experience.
Currently, she is leading the cast of the Tamil serial Gowri. In this show, she portrays dual characters, Kanaka and Durga, and as a result, has received appreciation for convincingly handling two contrasting roles within the same storyline.
Education and Background
Originally from Ballari in Karnataka, Nandini completed her pre-university education in 2018. Subsequently, she enrolled in an engineering course at RR Institute of Technology in Chikkabanavara, Bengaluru. However, she later discontinued her studies after realizing that acting was her true calling, and therefore chose to pursue it full-time.
Declined Government Job, Marriage Pressure Under Probe
Following her father’s death in 2023, Nandini became eligible for a government job under compassionate appointment rules. However, she chose not to accept the offer, preferring to continue her acting career. Police said this decision reportedly led to disagreements and emotional strain within her family.
In the note recovered by police, Nandini wrote that she was not ready for marriage and spoke about struggling with depression. She also expressed distress over feeling pressured by her parents to marry against her wishes. Investigators said the note is being examined as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Industry Shocked, Mental Health in Focus
Nandini’s death has left the Kannada and Tamil television industries in shock. Several actors and fans expressed grief on social media, remembering her as talented, determined, and passionate about her work.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the mental health challenges faced by young artists, particularly when personal aspirations clash with family expectations.
Police Continue Investigation
Police said they are continuing their investigation and have appealed to the public not to speculate. They reiterated that, based on current findings, there is no suspicion of foul play.
FAQs
Q1. Who was Nandini CM?
Nandini CM was a 26 year old Kannada and Tamil television actor known for her roles in popular serials, including Gowri and Neenade Naa.
Q2. Where was Nandini CM found dead?
She was found hanging in her paying guest accommodation in Kengeri, Bengaluru.
Q3. Did police recover a death note?
Yes, police recovered a handwritten diary and death note indicating emotional distress and personal struggles.
Q4. Is there any suspicion of foul play?
No. Police have stated that there is currently no suspicion of foul play in the case.
Q5. What were Nandini CM’s notable television roles?
She appeared in Kannada serials such as Jeeva Hoovagide, Madhumagalu, Neenade Naa, and played a dual lead role in the Tamil serial Gowri.
