Remembering Dr. Nunavath Ashwini: A Tribute to a Promising Scientist
A heartfelt tribute has been paid to the late Dr. Nunavath Ashwini, a talented 26-year-old scientist from Khammam City in India, who tragically lost her life in a flash flood earlier this month. Her promising career and bright future were cut short, leaving a void in the scientific community.
The tribute takes the form of a beautiful song written in Telugu by Bishop Rayarala Vijayakumar of Srikakulam, who serves as the chairman of the Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council Commission for Tribal Affairs. The song, released on September 19, honors the memory of Dr. Ashwini and celebrates her life and accomplishments.
In his emotional message, Bishop Vijayakumar expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of Dr. Ashwini, describing her as an irreplaceable daughter who shone brightly like a star in the sky. He called for Telangana’s Chief Minister to establish a scholarship program in her name, supporting tribal students in their educational pursuits and honoring Dr. Ashwini’s legacy.
Dr. Ashwini, a dedicated scientist affiliated with the ICAR — National Institute of Biotic Stress Management in Raipur, met a tragic end while traveling with her father, Nunawat Motilal, to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. Their journey was interrupted by heavy rain, causing the Akeruvagu stream near Purushothamaiah gudem in Maripeda Mandal to overflow and submerge their vehicle.
In a heartbreaking final phone call, Dr. Ashwini and her father described the rising floodwaters inside the car, a moment of helplessness captured before the call abruptly ended. The devastating news of her passing left family and friends in shock, with rescue teams later discovering her body near the Akeruvagu Bridge.
Tragically, Dr. Ashwini’s father remains missing as search efforts continue, leaving loved ones anxiously awaiting any news.
As we honor the memory of Dr. Nunavath Ashwini, let us remember her as a bright light in the scientific community and a beloved daughter whose potential was tragically cut short. Her passion for science and dedication to her work will always be remembered.
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