New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- A 36-year-old swimming and rappelling instructor from Thiruvananthapuram lost his life while rescuing a farmer stranded in Kerala's flood-hit Kannur district after handing over his own life jacket to the man.

R Rajesh, an experienced rescue volunteer, gave his life jacket to 61-year-old Benny during a rescue operation near Meenthully Island in Kannur on Sunday. After ensuring the farmer's safety, Rajesh was swept away by the powerful current. His body was recovered on Tuesday following an extensive three-day search.

Rajesh, a native of Kalliyoor, was working as a rappelling instructor at Meenthully Waterfalls and had joined local volunteers responding to flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall on August 1.

Benny h...