In a 24-page note left before his tragic suicide, Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash included a heartfelt goodbye letter for his 4-year-old son, who resides with his estranged wife, Nikita Singhania.
In this letter, Atul expressed his thoughts, hoping that one day his son would be “wise enough to understand it.” He shared the letter through a Google Drive link, which highlighted his distress and personal insights, leading to a broader discussion about the challenges men face.
However, some of the advice in the letter has been criticized as problematic and even sexist. Atul stated he couldn’t even remember what his son looked like, having last seen him when he was just a year old.
He expressed deep regret, writing, “Son – when I first saw you, I thought I could give my life for you any day. But sadly, I am giving my life because of you.
I don’t even remember your face now until I see old pictures. Now, you feel like a mistake I made.” An investigation has been launched into Atul’s death following allegations against his estranged wife and her family for harassment.
A complaint by Atul’s brother has led to a case being filed at the Marathahalli police station, where they are accused under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Atul had been ordered by the court to pay ₹80,000 monthly for his wife and son, but Nikita sought to increase that to ₹2 lakh.
He expressed that this situation turned the child into a financial burden for fathers, a sentiment echoed by many estranged fathers he spoke to. The FIR noted that the accused had filed numerous false cases against Atul and demanded ₹3 crore to settle their grievances, with allegations that Nikita wanted ₹30 lakh to permit Atul to see their son.
Atul’s letter revealed his anguish over the manipulation he felt from those around him, stating that he would not allow this situation to bring pain to his family. He expressed doubts about his son ever understanding the true meaning of having a father.
Reflecting on his challenging divorce process, Atul conveyed his frustrations regarding women’s empowerment, stating he believed the movement had gone astray. He warned that it could lead to a situation where men become slaves to this ideology, losing their freedom and peace of mind.
He advised his son to remember that “you don’t owe anything to anyone” and to be cautious of society and the system, which, according to him, aim to take advantage of individuals.
Atul recounted his journey, explaining that after marrying Nikita in 2019 and having their son the following year, he faced repeated financial demands from her family, leading to his wife leaving with their child in 2021.
In his suicide note, Atul expressed his anger toward the legal system, lamenting that as he worked harder, he faced more harassment and extortion.
He believed that his death would relieve his family from further financial burdens and struggles with his harassers, concluding with a statement that even in death, his beliefs would remain intact.
