A 55-year-old man from Navi Mumbai was rescued last week after spending over three years locked inside his apartment, completely isolated from the outside world.
The man, identified as Anup Kumar Nair, was suffering from severe depression and had voluntarily confined himself due to psychological trauma and depression.
Nair, a former computer programmer, lived in Gharkool Society in Sector 24, Juinagar. According to social workers from SEAL (Social and Evangelical Association for Love), a Panvel-based NGO, he had not stepped out of his flat for more than three years.
His only interaction with the outside world came through food delivery apps, which he used to meet his basic needs. When SEAL’s team entered his apartment, they found him living in appalling conditions, surrounded by garbage and suffering from a serious leg infection.
Nair’s life took a downward turn following a series of personal tragedies – the death of his parents a few years ago and the suicide of his elder brother nearly two decades ago. The emotional toll left him mentally exhausted and increasingly withdrawn. Eventually, he chose to isolate himself completely, disconnecting from friends, neighbours, and society at large.
His condition came to light after a concerned resident of the society alerted SEAL about the disturbing state of the flat. The NGO’s team responded swiftly, gaining access to the apartment and immediately arranging for medical treatment.
“He rarely opened his door and never disposed of garbage,” said Vijay Shibe, Chairman of Gharkool Society.
“We tried to help him in small ways and even provided financial assistance when we could. But we knew something was seriously wrong.”
Local resident Nikhil Marathe, who was instrumental in alerting authorities, added, “It’s heartbreaking to see someone deteriorate like this in silence. We all need to be more aware of those living alone around us.”
Currently, Nair is undergoing treatment and rehabilitation at SEAL Ashram in Panvel. Though still emotionally fragile, doctors and caregivers have reported early signs of improvement in his overall health and mental well-being.
In a brief conversation with his caretakers, Nair said, “My parents are gone, my brother is gone, and I have no friends left. My health is also not good. So there’s no scope for a new beginning.”