Satwiksairaj Rankireddy's Father Passes Away After Cardiac Arrest

Hyderabad, Feb 20: Ace India shuttler Satwiksairaj Rankireddy suffered a personal loss as his father, R. Kasi Viswanatham, passed away on Thursday (February 20) morning due to a cardiac arrest.

The 65-year-old leaves behind his wife and two sons. This tragic incident happened while Satwik's father and mother were travelling with a friend from Amalapuram to Rajahmundry airport.

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy Bereaved Father No More — Image: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy (Instagram)

They were on their way to Delhi to witness Satwik receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award later this week. Former Badminton Association of India secretary, K. Ch. Punnaiah Choudhary, shared this information. He also mentioned that he had coached Satwik's father for four years, which inspired Satwik to pursue badminton.

Badminton Community Remembers

Punnaiah expressed his deep shock at the news, having known the family for nearly forty years. He fondly recalled how coaching Viswanatham played a pivotal role in shaping Satwik's badminton journey. The badminton fraternity remembers an emotional moment when Satwik entered the Guinness Book of World Records for the fastest smash by a men's player.

Satwik recorded a speed of 565 kmph in 2023, showcasing his strong bond with his father. At that time, he shared a touching video on social media showing his father's happiness as he opened the parcel related to this achievement. "As my shuttle soared at 565 kmph, I realised the true speed of a father's pride – an unbreakable record in my heart," he wrote.

Family Arrangements

On their journey from Amalapuram, Viswanatham felt unwell and was taken to a nearby hospital but was declared 'brought dead’. Family members confirmed this sad news. His second son, currently in the US, is expected to return for the cremation scheduled for Saturday.

Satwik has arranged an afternoon flight from Delhi to reach home in time for the ceremonies. This tragic event has deeply affected those who knew him and highlights the close-knit nature of India's badminton community.