The Night Rajat Kumar Saved a Star
On December 30, 2022, Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant’s Mercedes collided with a divider on the Delhi-Dehradun highway, bursting into flames near Roorkee. Amid the chaos, two factory workers—Rajat Kumar and Nishu Kumar—rushed to the scene. Unaware of Pant’s identity, they pulled him from the burning wreckage, saving his life. Their bravery earned national acclaim, and Pant later gifted them scooters as a token of gratitude, calling them “heroes” in a heartfelt social media post 248.
A Desperate Act: Love Against Caste Barriers
Nearly three years later, Rajat Kumar’s story has taken a devastating turn. On February 9, 2025, Rajat (25) and his girlfriend, Manu Kashyap (21), consumed poison in Buchha Basti village, Uttar Pradesh, after their families opposed their relationship due to caste differences. Manu tragically succumbed to the poisoning, while Rajat remains hospitalized in critical but improving condition 249.
The couple’s families had allegedly arranged marriages for them with others, refusing to accept their inter-caste union. A village resident found them writhing in pain and alerted others, but the delay in medical intervention proved fatal for Manu. Her mother later accused Rajat of kidnapping and poisoning her daughter, though police investigations are ongoing 5811.
Society’s Irony: A Hero Now in Need
Rajat’s plight underscores a harsh societal paradox. The same village that celebrated him for saving Pant now grapples with scandal over his defiance of caste norms. As one report poignantly notes, in communities where “family honor” is paramount, young love across caste lines becomes a communal crisis 810.
Dr. Dinesh Tripathi of Pragya Hospital, where Rajat is being treated, confirmed that both consumed a potent pesticide. While Manu’s family moved her to another facility, Rajat’s condition has stabilized, though he remains unable to speak 349.
Rishabh Pant’s Response
Pant, who recently returned to cricket after a grueling recovery, has reportedly expressed intentions to visit Rajat in the hospital. His spokesperson hinted at the cricketer’s emotional connection to the man who once saved his life 46.
A Call for Change
This tragedy highlights India’s enduring struggle with caste-based discrimination and mental health stigma. While laws exist to protect inter-caste couples, societal pressure often overrides legal safeguards. Mental health professionals urge communities to prioritize empathy over tradition, emphasizing accessible support systems 910.
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling:
- Vandrevala Foundation: 9999666555
- iCall Helpline: 022-25521111 (8 AM–10 PM)
- Tele Manas: 14416 (24/7)
Final Thoughts
Rajat Kumar’s story is a stark reminder that heroism and vulnerability coexist. His courage saved a national icon, yet societal norms threatened his own life. As he fights for survival, his ordeal calls for reflection on how we honor humanity over hierarchy.
For updates on Rajat’s condition and related news, follow trusted sources linked in this article.
Sources: India.com, Devdiscourse, ThePrint, News18, NDTV, Times of India, The New Indian Express, TheSportsTak.