A 36-year-old tech professional from Kerala, GS Sharanya, who went missing for four days in a dense forest in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, has returned safely—only to find her account under scrutiny, with a political complaint questioning the authenticity of her survival story.
Who is GS Sharanya?
Sharanya, a native of Nadapuram in Kerala’s Kozhikode district, works at an IT firm in Kochi. Known to be an avid trekking enthusiast, her passion for outdoor adventures brought her to Kodagu, where she embarked on a trek that would soon draw national attention.
How Did She Go Missing?
Sharanya had checked into a homestay in Kodagu and began her trek early in the morning as part of a group of 12 trekkers heading to Thadiyandamol, the highest peak in Coorg. The group reached the summit by late morning, but during the descent, she reportedly lost her way.
She managed to contact the homestay during the day, informing them that she had strayed from the route. However, subsequent attempts to reach her failed as her phone went out of network coverage. Authorities soon launched a large-scale search operation involving forest officials, the Anti-Naxal Squad, drone surveillance, and assistance from local tribal communities.
Survival in the Wilderness
According to Sharanya, she survived the ordeal without carrying any food, relying primarily on water sourced from nearby streams—consuming approximately three litres a day. She stated that she chose to rest on rocky outcrops, considering them safer from potential wildlife encounters.
Despite spending four nights in the forest, she reported no direct encounters with wild animals, though she described hearing unfamiliar nocturnal sounds. On the fourth day, members of a local tribal community located her in a remote part of the forest.
Questions Raised Over Her Account
Sharanya’s relatively composed appearance and calm demeanour upon rescue have led to public scepticism. Some observers, including mountaineering experts, have questioned whether her physical condition aligns with typical survival scenarios in such environments.
The matter gained further attention after local leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party filed a complaint with the Napoklu police, alleging that the incident may have been staged for publicity. Authorities, however, have not registered a formal case but have initiated a preliminary inquiry to verify the sequence of events.
Ongoing Inquiry and Safety Measures
Police officials have stated that a thorough examination of her claims is underway. Meanwhile, authorities have taken precautionary measures by temporarily closing the trekking trail at Thadiyandamol until April 11. Solo trekking on the route has also been prohibited.
Plans are in place to improve safety infrastructure, including the installation of directional signage, rest areas, and bio-toilets before reopening the trail.
Unfazed by Controversy
Despite the scrutiny, Sharanya has remained composed. When asked about her future plans, she indicated that she may resume trekking after the summer season, suggesting that the experience has not diminished her passion for the outdoors.
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