The internet is mourning the loss of Rathnamma, the beloved grandmother who became a social media star through the popular Instagram page “Achamass.” Rathnamma died at 69 in Kerala and left behind millions of followers who had come to regard her as a member of their own family. Reports say she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.
Rathnamma and her husband, Thulasidharan, rose in popularity in their warm and entertaining videos on Instagram that were uploaded to the 'Achamass' page. They were simply stories of everyday life, fun and the love they shared as a couple. For the people, they were authentic and warm, and a lot of people who came into contact with them in the online community, the people who joined them, found it very interactive and fun.
The couple’s official social media page shared her death with family members, who gave the tragic news. Rathnamma died of a heart attack in the midst of her lifelong journey, in which fans had followed her for years.
The Achamass couple came from Punalur in Kerala’s Kollam district and appeared online when their grandchildren, Amal Raj and Akhil Raj, started recording and sharing videos of the elderly couple. What started as casual family content soon became a social media phenomenon. And some of their reels (from the animated film “Zootopia”) received millions of views.
Recently, the couple had less interaction online due to health problems. Thulasidharan had a stroke and was being treated, while Rathnamma herself was also having health issues. Even so, older videos continued to be shared widely on social media and remain popular.
Following Rathnamma's death, social media was flooded with tributes from followers who expressed grief and gratitude for the joy she brought into their lives. Many users said her videos were soothing and uplifting, especially in difficult times. Some of her fans said it was like losing a beloved relative, but not an online personality.
Rathnamma’s appeal transcended entertainment. She and Thulasidharan defied stereotypes about ageing by loving social media with a passion and optimism. Their videos were about companionship, humour, and the simple pleasures of life for many people from all walks of life.
As tributes pour in, Rathnamma will be remembered not only as a viral social media star but also as a symbol of warmth, love and genuine human connection. Her infectious smile and joyful presence touched millions, and her legacy will live on through the countless memories she made online.
