Indian badminton star R. Satwiksairaj suffered a heartbreaking loss as his father, Kasi Viswanatham, passed away on Thursday morning due to a massive cardiac arrest. He was 65 and is survived by his wife, Rangamani, and two sons.
The tragedy unfolded as Kasi Viswanatham, a retired physical education teacher, was on his way to Delhi with his wife and a close friend. The family was traveling from Amalapuram to Rajahmundry airport when he suddenly complained of uneasiness. Despite immediate medical attention, he was declared ‘brought dead’ at a nearby hospital, according to family members.
His journey to Delhi was meant to be a joyous occasion—he was traveling to see his son Satwik, who is set to receive India’s highest sporting honor, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, later this week.
A Legacy of Inspiration in Badminton
Kasi Viswanatham played a pivotal role in shaping Satwiksairaj’s badminton journey. Former Badminton Association of India (BAI) secretary K. Ch. Punnaiah Choudhary, who coached Satwik’s father for four years, recalled how his love for the sport influenced Satwik to take it up professionally.
“I have known their family for close to four decades, and this is a huge shock to us,” Choudhary told Sportstar, emphasizing the deep badminton connection within the family.
A Father’s Pride and an Unbreakable Bond
Satwik, known for his powerful smashes on the court, had always acknowledged his father’s unwavering support. The badminton community fondly remembers an emotional moment from 2023, when Satwik set a Guinness World Record for the fastest badminton smash (565 km/h).
To celebrate the achievement, Satwik shared a heartfelt video of his father unwrapping a parcel related to the record, capturing the pure joy and pride in his father’s eyes. In a touching tribute, Satwik wrote:
“As my shuttle soared at 565 kmph, I realised the true speed of a father’s pride – an unbreakable record in my heart.”
Final Rites and Family Arrangements
Satwik, who was in Delhi preparing for the Khel Ratna Award ceremony, has booked a flight home for the afternoon. Meanwhile, his younger brother, who resides in the United States, is also expected to return in time for the cremation on Saturday.
The badminton fraternity and fans have poured in condolences, mourning the loss of a man who played a key role in shaping one of India’s finest badminton talents.
