“A Family’s Final Journey: The Tragic Tale of the Mittals’ Mass Suicide in Panchkula”

In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the nation in shock, seven members of the Mittal family from Dehradun were found dead in their car in Panchkula, Haryana, on May 27, 2025. The family, comprising Praveen Mittal, his wife Reena, their three children, and Praveen’s elderly parents, had reportedly consumed poison, leading to their untimely demise. This tragic event occurred shortly after the family attended a religious discourse by Baba Dhirendra Shastri at Bageshwar Dham .The Times of India+11India Today+11The Times of India+11Rediff+5The Economic Times+5India TV News+5

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The Discovery

Late on Monday night, residents of Panchkula’s Sector 27 noticed a Hyundai Aura car parked unusually with a towel hanging from one of its doors. Upon closer inspection, they found six family members unconscious inside, with Praveen Mittal in a semi-conscious state. Before losing consciousness, Praveen reportedly confessed to a passerby that the family had consumed poison due to overwhelming debt and lack of support .The Times of India+5Rediff+5Hindustan Times+5The Times of India@mathrubhumi

A Life of Struggles

Praveen Mittal, once a businessman with ventures in scrap processing and a tour and travel agency, faced significant financial setbacks over the years. His businesses failed, leading to debts amounting to ₹15–20 crore. Assets, including properties and vehicles, were seized by banks. In recent times, Praveen worked as a taxi driver in Panchkula to make ends meet .The Times of IndiaBusiness Standard+1India Today+1India Today

The Suicide Notes

Authorities recovered two suicide notes from the car. In these notes, Praveen took full responsibility for the family’s decision, citing insurmountable financial burdens and expressing a desire not to burden his in-laws with the aftermath .Business Standard+4Rediff+4The Times of India+4Business Standard

Community Reaction

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the nation at large. Neighbors and acquaintances expressed disbelief, recalling the family as decent and reserved. The tragedy underscores the pressing issues of mental health awareness and the devastating impact of financial distress .

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A Call for Awareness

This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support and financial counseling. It highlights the need for communities to be vigilant and supportive, ensuring that individuals facing hardships have avenues for assistance and hope.

As the nation mourns the loss of the Mittal family, it’s imperative to reflect on the societal structures and support systems in place, aiming to prevent such tragedies in the future.