In an unusual incident, former US ballet dancer Lalita Kayi was found chained to a tree in a remote Indian forest, revealing self-imposed suffering and psychological distress, Mail Online reported.
Initially, Kayi claimed her nonexistent husband abandoned her, causing confusion and investigation. On July 27, cow herder Pandurang Gawkar discovered her near Sonurli village, about 280 miles from Mumbai. He was startled by eerie screams from the forest, leading him to Kayi, who was emaciated, distressed, and wounded.
Lalita Kayi initially claimed that a supposed spouse left her for dead, and she survived days without food or water. However, police found personal items, including a mobile phone and food, which suggested she wasn’t without resources.
Investigators discovered that Kayi, a recent Boston University psychology graduate who had moved to Tamil Nadu, had no husband. Her story unraveled further as mental health issues came to light.
As days passed, Lalita's testimonies and police investigations revealed that she orchestrated the situation herself amid psychological turmoil. Inspector Amol Chavan noted, "It appears that she was stuck there for a minimum of 48 hours," emphasizing the discrepancy between her physical bondage and the duration she claimed.
Her condition in the psychiatric facility improved, which allowed her to communicate and regain strength. Local police described her state upon discovery, stating, "The woman is weak as she has not eaten anything for a couple of days and also as the area experienced heavy rains."
Pandurang Gawkar, the cow herder, described finding Kayi, "The sound was coming from the forest on the side of the mountain. She was screaming like an animal."
Meanwhile, Lalita Kayi communicated with her family in the US, reassuring them of her recovery and care.
In addition, police investigate Lalita’s movements before her discovery, speculating that unresolved mental health issues influenced her decision to chain herself.
They continue to unravel the mystery of her transportation to the remote area, with suggestions that she might have disembarked from a train prematurely.
By August 6, investigators confirmed that no one else was involved in the distressing event, thereby highlighting the significant impact of psychological health on personal actions.
Moreover, Lalita Kayi's experience underscores the complexities of mental health crises, especially without immediate support. Her transition from psychology student to patient reveals a tragic irony.
Furthermore, the incident raises questions about mental health awareness and the support systems necessary to prevent such crises. While Kayi’s physical health is stabilizing, her healthcare providers continue to focus on her psychological recovery.
