2 men from Jharkhand went to Vietnam to teach yoga. Now, kin await their bodies
Source Entity
Shubham Tigga
Two Jharkhand yoga instructors, Vinay Yadav and Raja Kumar, tragically died following a road accident in Da Lat, Vietnam. Their families are currently working to repatriate their bodies to India.
A Tragic End to International Aspirations
The recent tragedy involving two Indian yoga instructors in Vietnam has cast a somber shadow over the trend of skilled Indian professionals seeking employment in Southeast Asia. Vinay Yadav from Jamshedpur and Raja Kumar from Ranchi had traveled to the city of Da Lat to work at the Adi Yoga Academy. Their journey, intended to improve their families’ economic standing, ended in a devastating road accident on September 25, leaving their relatives in Jharkhand in a state of profound grief and uncertainty.
The Human Cost of Global Mobility
For many young professionals from Jharkhand, international roles in sectors like fitness and wellness have become an attractive avenue for upward mobility. Vinay Yadav had established himself in Vietnam over a three-year period, eventually joined by Raja Kumar in 2025. The loss of both men serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with working abroad, where distance, language barriers, and bureaucratic hurdles can complicate even the most routine circumstances, such as the logistics of mortality.
The Logistics of Repatriation
Currently, the families of both men are in a state of agonizing limbo as they await the return of their loved ones' remains. The process of repatriating bodies from a foreign country involves complex international regulations, documentation, and coordination between local authorities in Vietnam and the Indian diplomatic missions. For families in Ranchi and Jamshedpur, this administrative burden adds an additional layer of trauma to their bereavement.
Community and Family Impact
The emotional toll on the families is immense. Raja Kumar’s mother, Rupa Devi, remains inconsolable, with the family’s daily life now centered entirely on the hope for the arrival of his body. The testimony provided by Raja's brother, Shubham Kumar, highlights the communal distress being felt in their local neighborhood, where the community is rallying to support the grieving families during this period of helplessness and waiting.
Broader Implications for Overseas Workers
This incident underscores the necessity for better support systems for Indian workers abroad. While the yoga industry in Southeast Asia has grown, providing legitimate employment for many, the infrastructure to support these workers in times of crisis—such as legal aid, emergency insurance, and clear communication channels with home state governments—remains inconsistent. The tragedy in Da Lat will likely prompt discussions regarding the safety and security protocols for Indians working in similar roles across the region.
Conclusion
The passing of Vinay Yadav and Raja Kumar is a heartbreaking conclusion to their professional dreams. As their families continue to navigate the painful wait for repatriation, the incident stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by migrant workers. The primary focus of authorities and the community remains the swift and respectful return of the deceased to their homes in Jharkhand to provide the families with a final sense of closure.