A 26-year-old Indian student from Kurnool was found dead in his apartment in Chicago, with initial accounts suggesting he had been facing prolonged joblessness and financial stress.
The deceased, Chandu Iraganaboyina, had completed his master’s degree from DePaul University last year. According to friends, he had briefly secured employment with a tech firm, but his contract ended recently, leaving him without a stable income.
People close to him said he had been under mounting financial pressure, including education-related loans taken by his family to support his studies abroad. They added that he was reserved and rarely discussed his personal struggles.
Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Community organisations, including the Telugu Association of North America (TANA), are assisting with formalities and coordinating efforts to repatriate his body to India.
The incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced by international students in the US, including employment uncertainty, visa constraints, and financial burdens.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out for support can help. In India, you can contact AASRA (24/7 helpline: 91-9820466726), and in the US, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text.
