The deceased was identified as Lalitha Murthy (61), a widow, police sources told PTI.
The murder was detected by the servant maid in the morning when Lalitha did not open the door despite her ringing the bell many times.
"The maid then alerted the neighbours and when the door was broken open,Lalitha was found lying on the floor, strangulated", police said.
"Murder for gain appears to be ruled out as the jewellery worn by the deceased was found intact and nothing seems missing from the house. However, the real motive behind the murder is yet to be ascertained", police sources said.
Lalitha is survived by her son, who is settled in the US and a married daughter who resides elsewhere in the city.
Published 21 February 2011, 10:57 IST