Vibin Dhamodaran (32), who was killed in the forest fire during trekking at Kurangani hills in Theni is remembered by his friends as an avid trekker and nature lover.
A native of Marthandam in Kanniyakumari, Dhamodaran married Divya (30), a native of Kinathukadavu in Coimbatore two years ago. Divya has sustained burns in the fire and is currently under treatment.
“Dhamodaran and Divya were avid trekkers and they met each other during such trips. Dhamodaran had quit his job in an IT company some years ago and embarked on a cycling expedition to the North. He had a craving for adventure trips, staying with local people in remote areas and exploring nature. Above all he used to make a bond with everyone who gets in touch with him,” remembers Dhamodaran’s friend Rajesh Kesava Iyer, an IT professional.
After hearing about the forest fire, Mr. Iyer tried to contact Dhamodaran over mobile phone which was out of reach. Later he dialled the latter’s brother who confirmed the death.
“He was in love with mountains, hills and hard terrains. Fate made him breathe his last at the place he loved most. It is learnt that he was trapped in the fire while attempting to rescue others,” said M. Iyer.
Police sources in Coimbatore said that Divya organised trekking trips involving her women friends from Chennai. The couple was taking care of a saw mill belonged to Divya’s parents at Viswa Garden near Kinathukadavu.
