Tragedy Strikes London Couple on Thailand Holiday
A well-known London events organiser has died under tragic circumstances while holidaying in Thailand, with his girlfriend reportedly being resuscitated multiple times after both allegedly had their drinks spiked. The incident has sent shockwaves through London's music and festival communities where the victim was a beloved figure.
Sudden Collapse in Bangkok
Tom Pardhy, 38, from East London, collapsed and died suddenly in Bangkok on March 6 while on a six-week trip through Thailand with his partner, Naomi Raksha, 31. According to Ms. Raksha's mother, Heather Brown, who has since flown to Thailand, the couple "were given spiked drinks in Bangkok" prior to the tragic events.
Ms. Raksha was rushed to hospital in a blue tuk-tuk and placed in intensive care, where she was intubated and treated for poisoning following a cardiac arrest. Medical staff reportedly resuscitated her multiple times before she fell into a coma. Mr. Pardhy was found unresponsive approximately 24 hours later.
Prominent Figure in London Music Scene
The 38-year-old events organiser was a prominent and well-loved figure in London's music scene, having worked at countless festivals and events throughout his career. His death was confirmed on March 11 in an emotional Instagram post signed by Naomi, his mother Joanna, and sister Alex.
"It is with indescribable grief and sadness that we are writing to tell you of the sudden, accidental and unexpected death of our dear Tom in Bangkok last Friday 6th of March," the heartfelt message read. "He was an absolute beacon of light in his East London community and beyond... From the festival circuit to his beloved yoga community, we know he will be dearly missed by so many."
Girlfriend's Harrowing Survival Story
Naomi Raksha, who is currently in a rehabilitation centre recovering from the ordeal, described Tom as her "biggest fan" and "rock" in a personal account of the traumatic experience. "On the morning of March 6 in Bangkok, my life changed in a way I never could have imagined," she wrote. "I suffered a heart attack and was pronounced dead multiple times before slipping into a coma."
She added: "By every medical measure, the odds of surviving weren't in my favour - yet somehow, I am still here. I returned alone, without Tom by my side. He saved my life, and that truth will stay with me for the rest of mine."
Ms. Raksha is receiving treatment for physical recovery as well as grief, PTSD, and trauma at the rehabilitation centre. "Healing, I'm learning, is not linear - it requires patience, humility, and support," she noted in her statement.
Family Requests Privacy and Celebration
The family has requested privacy regarding the specific circumstances of Tom's death, stating: "We are keeping what we know about the circumstances of his death within our close family and friends, and ask that any questions about exactly what has happened are not asked here."
They encouraged friends and community members to share memories using the hashtag #TLPLOVE and noted that Tom's last month in Thailand with Naomi was "truly the happiest of his life." A cremation is believed to be taking place at a Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
An FCDO spokesperson confirmed: "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities." The tragic incident has highlighted the dangers of drink spiking while traveling and left London's creative community mourning the loss of one of its brightest lights.
