A new development has emerged in the tragic death of Kunal Chandgude and his parents at Khawadya Hill in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. While the incident was initially reported as stemming from a dispute over an iPhone EMI, police sources have now indicated that Kunal had allegedly attempted suicide from the same spot in 2025 as well.
Teen had attempted suicide from same cliff last year
According to police sources cited in multiple reports, Kunal had previously gone to the same hilltop and attempted to end his life in 2025. Police personnel had managed to persuade him to abandon the attempt at that time.
The revelation has prompted investigators to examine whether the latest tragedy was linked to deeper and longer-standing family or personal difficulties, rather than being solely connected to the iPhone instalment dispute.
iPhone EMI dispute was the immediate trigger
The earlier investigation indicated that Kunal had purchased an expensive iPhone on EMI and was unable to manage the instalments. On August 21, he reportedly had an argument with his father, Murlidhar Chandgude, over money for the next instalment.
Following the argument, Kunal went to Khawadya Hill and threatened to end his life. His parents followed him, while local residents, police and fire brigade personnel spent several hours trying to persuade him to return to safety.
Father died while trying to save son
During the rescue attempt, Kunal fell from the hill. His father, 48-year-old Murlidhar, also fell while attempting to save him. Kunal’s mother, Sangita, subsequently fell into the gorge as well.
All three died in the incident. Reports place the depth of the gorge at around 200–250 feet, although descriptions vary between sources.
Mother’s old videos surface
Following the tragedy, old videos posted by Kunal’s mother have also surfaced online. In one video, she reportedly spoke about relationships and personal values, while other videos have drawn attention to the family’s emotional circumstances.
The videos have led to speculation about tensions within the family. However, social-media videos alone cannot establish the cause of the tragedy, and the circumstances are still being examined by authorities.
Family had faced earlier loss
Reports have also highlighted that the family had previously lost Kunal’s elder brother several years ago. Sources cited in recent reports have said the family had been under emotional strain following that loss and that Kunal’s parents were reportedly living separately.
These details have emerged as investigators examine the broader circumstances surrounding the incident.
Investigation continues
The latest findings suggest that the iPhone EMI dispute may not have been the only factor behind the tragedy. Kunal’s previous suicide attempt at the same location and the family’s reported difficulties are now being examined as part of the investigation.
However, authorities have not established a single definitive cause for the incident. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths continues.
