Days after actress Shefali’s death, 25-year-old youth’s death raises questions on rising cardiac arrests

In a deeply alarming incident, 25-year-old Gundla Rakesh collapsed and died of a suspected heart attack while playing badminton at Hyderabad’s Nagole Stadium. CCTV footage shows Rakesh collapsing mid-game, with fellow players attempting CPR before he was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared brought dead.

Rakesh, who hailed from Khammam district, is the latest addition to a growing list of young Indians succumbing to sudden cardiac arrests.

Worrying Trends, Rising Numbers

Just last month, Karnataka’s Hassan district reported 22 cardiac deaths in 40 days, with many victims in their 20s and 30s. Health experts have linked this surge to a mix of undiagnosed heart conditions, high stress, poor lifestyle habits, and lack of preventive screenings.

Even as Jayadeva Hospital in Bengaluru reports an 8% rise in cardiac OPD cases, fear and awareness are rising among youth across urban India.

एक और हंसते खेलते मौत LIVE

हैदराबाद में 25 साल के राकेश की मौत हार्ट अटैक से बैडमिंटन खेलते हुए।

कितनी ऐसी मौत के बाद हम इस मेडिकल इमरजेंसी को स्वीकार करेंगे। युवाओं के बीच महामारी की तरह पसर रहा है pic.twitter.com/WsI60feZYh

— Narendra Nath Mishra (@iamnarendranath) July 28, 2025

What’s Driving These Deaths?

Health experts attribute this unsettling rise to undiagnosed genetic conditions, extreme stress, sedentary lifestyles, erratic diets, and overexertion without proper medical clearance. The tragic passing of actor Shefali Jariwala at 42 in late June further underscores the urgency of early screening.

Solutions for a Heart-Healthy Life

While the threat is real, it’s preventable. Experts recommend:

Balanced diet: Focus on fresh, unprocessed foods; limit sugar, salt, and junk.

Regular exercise: At least 150 minutes/week of physical activity.

Routine health check-ups: Especially for blood pressure, cholesterol, and ECGs.

Stress management: Through meditation, sleep, and mindful living.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.

Time to Take the Heart Seriously

Rakesh’s death is a tragic reminder that heart health is no longer just an older adult’s concern. In today’s fast-paced world, early action, awareness, and lifestyle choices can truly save lives.