The body of 18-year-old Vaishnav Krishnakumar, a student at Middlesex University in Dubai, was repatriated to Kerala on Friday night after completing all formalities. Vaishnav tragically passed away during Diwali celebrations earlier this week, with Dubai Police confirming that the cause of death was a cardiac arrest.
The young student’s death has left friends, family, and his academic community in shock. Social worker Ashraf Thamarassery confirmed to Khaleej Times that Vaishnav’s body was flown from Dubai to Thiruvananthapuram at 9:30 pm on Friday. His family also travelled to Kerala to oversee the final rites. Vaishnav’s uncle, Nitish, was present at the mortuary during the repatriation and shared that Dubai authorities confirmed the cause of death as cardiac arrest, a detail included in the official documentation.
Vaishnav’s death occurred on Tuesday after he participated in Diwali celebrations with friends. According to his uncle, the student had danced for about an hour before feeling tired and stepping aside. Shortly after, he collapsed and was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The family confirmed that Vaishnav had no known underlying health conditions, making the sudden loss all the more unexpected.
Vaishnav was an exemplary student, receiving recognition for his academic excellence, including the prestigious Golden Visa. He had been active in school life, serving as the Head of the School Council at his alma mater, GEMS Our Own Indian School. The school’s principal, Lalitha Suresh, expressed the community’s grief, stating that the entire staff and student body were deeply shocked by the loss.
In a heartfelt social media post, GEMS Our Own Indian School remembered Vaishnav for his humility, compassion, and perseverance. A teacher who had worked with him praised his achievements, writing, “Your departure is a loss beyond measure. We have lost not only a wonderful student but a remarkable human being.” Vaishnav’s mother, Vidhu Krishnakumar, is also a teacher at the school. His friends and peers spoke of his generosity and infectious positivity, noting how he was always ready to help others.
Vaishnav’s dedication extended beyond academics. His uncle described how Vaishnav was a hardworking young man who didn’t want to burden his family. When he needed new gadgets for university, he found a part-time job and saved up the money to buy them himself. This self-sufficiency and determination left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
The tragic loss of Vaishnav has deeply impacted his community, leaving behind cherished memories of a young man who was not only a top student but also a kind and considerate individual. His sudden passing during what should have been a joyful occasion has served as a painful reminder of the fragility of life.
