India is often celebrated for its cultural traditions, especially the deep respect it shows for elders. But behind this image lies a disturbing reality: Thalaikoothal, a little-known traditional practice that amounts to senicide—the ritual killing of elderly individuals.

Though largely hidden, reports have surfaced from rural areas in Tamil Nadu’s southern districts—particularly Virudhunagar, Madurai, and Theni. Families carry out Thalaikoothal quietly, often without the consent of the seniors involved, making it a form of involuntary euthanasia.

When an older family member is seen as unable to contribute or becomes a financial or physical burden, relatives sometimes resort to this ritual. Instead of receiving care, what unfolds is a painful reality confined to private spaces.

How the Practice Is Carried Out

To understand what makes this tradition so alarming, it helps to look at how it is performed. The word Thalaikoothal literally means “pouring water on the head,” which refers to one of the key steps in the ritual. Early in the morning, the elder undergoes an oil massage, followed by a cold water bath. They are forced to drink several glasses of tender coconut water, rather than consuming it voluntarily.

This sequence—the massage, sudden cold water exposure, and excessive intake of coconut water—is believed to cause a rapid drop in body temperature while placing severe strain on the kidneys. The high potassium content in coconut water is thought to contribute to renal failure. As a result, the elderly person often develops fever, shock, and organ failure, with death typically occurring within two to three days.

If the primary method fails, some families reportedly resort to nearly 25 other methods, many of which are equally disturbing. These include mixing poison—often the type used for animals—into food or drink; feeding milk while blocking the nostrils, which can cause both aspiration and suffocation; and forcing elders to drink mud dissolved in water, leading to gastrointestinal infections that develop into septicemia and eventually result in death.

Reasons Behind the Practice

The reasons why Thalaikoothal continues are tied to social and economic realities. Most often, it is carried out when the elderly individual is terminally ill or bedridden. This inhumane act dates back to the British colonial era and continues to be seen in economically weaker sections of society.

Some cases show that the motive isn’t always illness or poverty. There have been instances where Thalaikoothal was linked to gaining ancestral property or securing government jobs meant for the parents.

Interestingly, this act is not unique to rural India. Similar customs have been documented around the world, such as Ubasute in Japan, Lapot in Serbia, and comparable practices in Israel and Sardinia.

Legal Awareness and Public Response

Despite being illegal, Thalaikoothal remains largely unchallenged in the areas where it is practiced. It may not be an age-old tradition, but where it exists, it has been accepted so deeply that few people speak against it or try to raise awareness.

Legally, the practice violates Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the Right to Life and allows only passive euthanasia. Under Section 300 of the Indian Penal Code, it is treated as culpable homicide and is punishable by law. If there is no consent from the elderly individual, it is considered murder.

Although these laws exist, they remain effective only when supported by public awareness and consistent enforcement—both of which remain lacking in affected areas.

Awareness and Rights

Laws may outline the framework, but real change happens only when people know their rights and use them.

Government initiatives like the nationwide Citizen Helpline give seniors a direct way to seek help.

NGOs such as HelpAge India work on the ground to inform communities about harmful customs like Thalaikoothal and provide resources for seniors to protect themselves.

Provisions under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, and its 2019 Amendment ensure that children are legally responsible for their parents’ care. Seniors can file for maintenance if neglected, but many are unaware of these rights—making awareness campaigns all the more important.

The Film 'Thalaikoothal' & Cultural Response

In recent years, cinema has also played a role in sparking conversations about the practice. The 2023 Tamil-language film Thalaikoothal brought the subject into mainstream discussion. Directed by Jayaprakash Radhakrishnan and featuring performances by Samuthirakani, Kathir, and Vasundhara Kashyap, the film was released in Tamil Nadu on 3 February 2023.

At its heart, the story follows Pazhani, a devoted son who continues to care for his comatose father despite growing debts and pressure from his relatives. As society insists on Thalaikoothal, the story builds toward a tragic ending. The plot weaves themes of love, caste, and dignity into a layered portrayal, told partly through dream‑like flashbacks and carefully crafted visuals.

Critics responded strongly. The Hindu called the film “simply outstanding,” praising the performances, sound design, and imagery. The Times of India described it as “socially relevant” and commended how convincingly it depicted the still‑existing practice of senicide in parts of Tamil Nadu.

Moving Forward

Thalaikoothal highlights a complex intersection of tradition, hardship, and the treatment of the elderly in some communities. While the practice remains hidden and illegal, increased understanding and awareness are essential steps toward change. With continued efforts from legal authorities, social organizations, and cultural voices, vulnerable seniors can be better protected—and their dignity upheld—in the years ahead.

Reference:

1. Issac, ThomasGregor, and G Sandhya. “‘Thalaikoothal’ – a Less-Known Practice of Senicide in Rural India.” Journal of Psychiatry Spectrum 2, no. 2 (July 1, 2023): 127–28. https://doi.org/10.4103/jopsys.jopsys_1_23.

_MSM/SE