A 52-year-old Indian woman living in Muscat lost her life in a tragic trekking accident in Oman’s Jebel Shams region, drawing condolences from the Indian diaspora and cultural circles in Kerala.
Sharada Iyer, originally from Thazhava in Kollam district of Kerala, died on January 2 while trekking along marked trails in the rugged Wadi Ghul area of Jebel Shams, located in Oman’s Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. Local authorities have not disclosed the precise cause of death, but the region is known for its steep cliffs and challenging terrain, which pose risks even to experienced trekkers.
Well-known family background
Sharada Iyer was the daughter of late agricultural scientists R D Iyer and Rohini Iyer. She was also the sister of noted Malayalam playback singer Chitra Iyer, whose emotional tribute to her sibling has resonated widely on social media.
Iyer was a former manager with Oman Air and had been residing in Muscat for several years. According to family sources, she had returned to Oman on December 24 after travelling to India to attend her father’s funeral. He had passed away on December 11.
Trekking risks in Jebel Shams
Jebel Shams, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Oman”, is a popular trekking and adventure tourism destination. While the area attracts visitors from across the world, its narrow paths, sudden drops and rocky surfaces make trekking potentially dangerous, particularly in certain weather and light conditions.
Omani authorities regularly advise trekkers to follow safety guidelines, use proper equipment and avoid venturing into risky stretches without adequate preparation.
Funeral arrangements in Kerala
Sharada Iyer’s mortal remains are being flown from Oman to Kerala. Her last rites will be held on January 7 at the family’s ancestral home in Thazhava, as per family members.
Announcing the loss, Chitra Iyer shared a deeply personal message on Instagram, mourning not just the death of a sister but the absence of a constant presence in her life. Her words reflected grief, affection and a bond shaped by shared memories and everyday conversations.
The sudden death has cast a pall of sorrow over family, friends and admirers, particularly within Kerala’s cultural and expatriate communities.