P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away, nation mourns a quiet pillar of Indian athletics
P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away early Friday morning, January 30, 2026, sending a wave of grief across India’s sporting and administrative circles. V. Srinivasan, a former kabaddi player and retired Deputy Superintendent of Police from the Central Industrial Security Force, collapsed at his residence in Thikkoti near Kozhikode in Kerala. He was 67.
According to family sources, Srinivasan suffered a sudden medical emergency at home and could not be revived. His demise marks the end of a life that remained largely away from the spotlight but played a deeply influential role in shaping Indian athletics alongside one of the country’s greatest sporting icons, P.T. Usha.
As news that P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away spread, tributes poured in from athletes, coaches, administrators and political leaders, remembering him as a disciplined officer, committed sportsman and a steadfast supporter of grassroots athletics in India.
A life rooted in service, sport and discipline
Born with a passion for sport, Srinivasan was himself an accomplished kabaddi player in his younger days. His athletic background fostered a deep understanding of the rigour, sacrifice and discipline required to excel in competitive sport. This understanding later became invaluable in his role behind the scenes at the Usha School of Athletics, one of India’s most respected training institutions.
After a distinguished career in the CISF, from which he retired as Deputy SP, Srinivasan devoted much of his time to mentoring young athletes. Those close to him say his policing background brought structure, discipline and operational efficiency to the academy, complementing P.T. Usha’s technical and inspirational leadership.
The news that P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away has left a void not only in her personal life but also in the ecosystem of Indian athletics that benefited quietly from his involvement.
Role in Usha School of Athletics and athlete development
Srinivasan played an active role in the daily functioning and long-term vision of the Usha School of Athletics in Kozhikode. The institution has produced several international-level athletes, including Asian Games medalists and national champions such as Tinku Luka and Jisna Mathew.
Coaches and former trainees recall Srinivasan as approachable yet firm, someone who believed in discipline as much as encouragement. While P.T. Usha trained athletes on the track, Srinivasan ensured that logistical, administrative and welfare aspects were handled efficiently.
As P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away, many former athletes have spoken about his role in motivating them during difficult phases, often acting as a guardian figure for young sportspersons training far from home.
A silent force behind P.T. Usha’s comeback
Beyond administration, Srinivasan was also a crucial emotional anchor during one of the most defining moments of P.T. Usha’s career. When she decided to return to competitive athletics at the Asian Championships in 1998, long after most athletes would have retired, Srinivasan stood firmly by her side.
Friends and family members say he was instrumental in encouraging her comeback, managing schedules and shielding her from distractions. His unwavering belief in her abilities strengthened her resolve at a time when expectations were high and criticism was relentless.
The announcement that P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away has therefore resonated deeply with admirers of the legendary sprinter, many of whom acknowledge his behind-the-scenes contribution to her enduring legacy.
Tributes from sporting and political circles
As news of Srinivasan’s passing emerged, condolence messages flooded social media platforms. Senior athletes, Olympic officials, coaches and administrators described him as humble, supportive and deeply committed to Indian sport.
Leaders from Kerala and the national sporting establishment expressed condolences to P.T. Usha, who currently serves as a Rajya Sabha MP and President of the Indian Olympic Association. Many noted that Srinivasan’s contribution, though often understated, was integral to the success of institutions and athletes associated with Usha.
The phrase P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away trended across regional media as the sporting community reflected on the loss of a man who chose service over limelight.
Final rites and legacy
Family sources said that final rites would be held in Kozhikode with close relatives, athletes and officials expected to attend. The family has requested privacy during this period of grief.
Srinivasan is survived by P.T. Usha and their family. His legacy lives on through the athletes he mentored, the institution he helped build and the values of discipline and integrity he embodied throughout his life.
As P.T. Usha husband Srinivasan passes away, Indian sport mourns not just the loss of a former officer and athlete, but of a quiet architect who helped shape champions and strengthen the foundations of athletics in the country.
