Sharada Iyer, 52, an Indian woman residing in Muscat and sister of Malayalam playback singer Chitra Iyer, tragically lost her life in a trekking accident in Oman’s Jebel Shams region. The news has sent ripples of grief through her family, friends, and the broader Indian expatriate community in Oman. Known for her adventurous spirit, Sharada’s untimely demise underscores the inherent risks associated with trekking in challenging terrains. Her death occurred just weeks after she had returned to Oman following the funeral of her father, RD Iyer, a respected agricultural scientist, who passed away in December 2025.
Sharada Iyer’s life reflected a blend of professional achievement and personal vibrancy. Formerly a manager with Oman Air, she was recognized for her dedication, warmth, and active lifestyle. Her death on January 2, 2026, in the rugged Wadi Ghul area of Jebel Shams, one of Oman’s most popular trekking destinations, has highlighted both the allure and the dangers of trekking in mountainous regions.
While the precise cause of the accident has not been disclosed, the steep cliffs and rocky terrain of Jebel Shams are widely acknowledged as potential hazards for trekkers, even those with experience and preparation. Authorities confirmed that Iyer was following marked trekking paths at the time of the accident, emphasizing that even guided and structured treks can carry significant risks.
Her body is being transported from Oman to Kerala, where the family plans to conduct her last rites at their ancestral home in Thazhava on January 7. The loss has been deeply felt by her sister, Chitra Iyer, who shared an emotional tribute on social media, expressing both grief and the enduring love she felt for her sister.
A Life of Adventure and Professional Accomplishments
Sharada Iyer’s journey was marked by a balance between professional excellence and personal passion. Having lived in Muscat for several years, she carved out a respected career at Oman Air, where she served as a manager. Her role demanded leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to navigate complex operational environments, all of which she executed with distinction. Beyond her professional life, Sharada had a keen interest in outdoor activities, particularly trekking. Her enthusiasm for nature, physical challenges, and exploration reflected a personality unafraid to embrace adventure.
Her connection to her homeland remained strong despite her expatriate status. Originally from Thazhava in Kerala, she belonged to a family with a rich legacy in science and education. Her parents, RD Iyer and Rohini Iyer, were well-regarded agricultural scientists who had made significant contributions to the field. Sharada, as their daughter, imbibed values of diligence, curiosity, and resilience, which guided both her professional and personal pursuits.
Sharada’s adventurous spirit was evident in her willingness to undertake challenging treks, even in terrains known for their risks. The Jebel Shams region, often called the “Grand Canyon of Oman,” presents steep cliffs, rocky ridges, and sudden drops, making it a favored yet challenging destination for trekkers worldwide. That she was traversing these paths in a group suggests she was not acting recklessly but rather with a calculated enthusiasm for adventure.
The accident occurred in the Wadi Ghul area of Jebel Shams, located in Oman’s Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. Wadi Ghul is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, offering trekkers panoramic views of deep canyons and rugged mountain cliffs. However, the steep terrain also poses considerable hazards, particularly for those unfamiliar with the region or caught in unstable weather conditions. While details of the accident remain sparse, authorities have confirmed that Sharada was following marked trekking paths at the time.
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Local rescue teams and authorities in Oman have experience in managing trekking accidents, but the challenges of Jebel Shams—its narrow paths, sharp elevation changes, and limited access points—can complicate rescue efforts. Despite the best safety measures, accidents in such environments can be sudden and severe. The reporting of her death indicates that the incident was fatal at the scene, a tragic outcome that highlights the unpredictability of mountain trekking.
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Sharada had recently returned to Oman on December 24 after attending her father’s funeral in India, who had passed away on December 11. The juxtaposition of attending her father’s funeral and then meeting a sudden and tragic end in Oman just weeks later adds a poignant layer to her story, underscoring the fragility of life and the unexpected turns that can occur even during moments meant for personal renewal and recovery.
Family Reactions and Public Tribute
The emotional impact of Sharada’s death on her family has been profound. Her sister, Chitra Iyer, took to social media to share an affectionate and heartfelt tribute. Chitra’s words painted a vivid picture of Sharada’s personality: spirited, outspoken, loving, and occasionally exasperating to those closest to her. In her post, Chitra described her sister as a “feisty little banshee” and recalled the joy, energy, and vibrant chatter that characterized their relationship.
The tribute reflects not only grief but also a celebration of Sharada’s life. It emphasizes the deep familial bonds that existed between the sisters and the difficulty of reconciling with such a sudden loss. Chitra’s words, while personal, resonated widely with readers, particularly within the Indian expatriate community in Oman and among fans of Chitra Iyer’s music, many of whom extended condolences and support.
Sharada’s death has also drawn attention to the Indian community in Oman, highlighting the contributions and active lifestyles of expatriates in the country. Her professional achievements, adventurous pursuits, and familial connections collectively portray a life that was vibrant and impactful, leaving behind memories cherished by family and friends alike.
The family has announced that Sharada’s body will be flown back to Kerala for her final rites, scheduled for January 7 at the family’s ancestral home in Thazhava. This period will allow relatives, friends, and community members to pay their respects and offer condolences, providing a measure of closure in the face of an otherwise sudden tragedy.
Risks of Trekking in Challenging Terrains
Sharada Iyer’s death also serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with trekking in challenging environments like Jebel Shams. Mountain trekking, while offering unparalleled scenic beauty and physical challenge, carries inherent risks such as steep drops, loose rocks, sudden weather changes, and difficult navigation. Even experienced trekkers can encounter accidents, which can be fatal if immediate help is not available.
Authorities and trekking organizations globally emphasize safety measures such as traveling in groups, carrying communication devices, staying on marked paths, and being prepared for emergencies. Sharada’s participation in a group trek indicates that she was taking responsible precautions, yet the incident demonstrates that accidents can occur even under structured and guided conditions.
The tragedy may prompt renewed discussions among trekking enthusiasts about safety protocols, training, and risk management. Many trekking destinations around the world, including Oman’s mountainous regions, continue to encourage adventure tourism while also advising caution, preparation, and awareness of environmental hazards.
Sharada Iyer’s passing is a profound loss to her family, friends, and the communities she touched through her professional work and personal adventures. Her life, marked by professional dedication, familial devotion, and a passion for outdoor pursuits, reflects a multifaceted personality that leaves a lasting impression. The tragic circumstances of her death in Jebel Shams highlight the unpredictability of life and the inherent risks of high-altitude trekking.
As her body is returned to Kerala and her family prepares to perform her final rites, the memories of Sharada’s spirit, energy, and love for life will remain with those who knew her. Through the heartfelt tributes of her sister and the wider community, Sharada Iyer’s legacy as a dedicated professional, adventurous soul, and loving sister endures beyond her untimely departure.