An inquest has been opened into the death of Murray Bridge priest Father Vimalraj Antonyadimai, who was found dead in his living quarters in October 2021 at the age of 53.

South Australian authorities are examining parish conflicts, including complaints made against him by a parishioner.

The parishioner, who had accused Fr Antonyadimai of verbal abuse and allegedly made racial remarks, has strongly denied making such comments. She told the inquest that she had previously lodged complaints because the priest yelled at her.

It is reported that Fr Antonyadimai, described by colleagues as a “sensitive” and “gentle” priest, had expressed fear of public disgrace before his death.

He had arrived in Australia from southern India in December 2018 and served as assistant priest at Salisbury before his appointment in Murray Bridge.

In 2021, more than 200 people attended a memorial Mass for Fr Antonyadimai at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, celebrated by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan.

The service was livestreamed, allowing family and friends in India to participate, with more than 3,000 viewers. Archbishop O’Regan offered condolences to Fr Antonyadimai’s cousin, Fr Selvaraj Leenaiah, his family in India, and the Diocese of Kottar.

In a letter to clergy, the Archbishop acknowledged the difficulty of understanding the circumstances of Fr Antonyadimai’s death, emphasising the role of faith in navigating life’s paradoxes and challenges. Funeral arrangements were still being finalised at the time of reporting.

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