Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 13 – In the wake of the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad on June 12, which claimed the lives of 241 people, heartfelt tributes have poured in from Bollywood celebrities. The tragic accident occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport, with only one survivor among the 242 passengers and crew onboard.
Veteran actor Anupam Kher took to Instagram to express his grief and offer condolences. In an emotional video, he said,
“I pray to God to give peace to those who have lost their loved ones in this accident… We are with you. The whole of humanity is with you. And this country salutes every family that has been affected. Om Shanti, Naman and Shraddhanjali.”
He captioned the post: “Ahmedabad plane crash – Tribute! Om Shanti!”
Watch the video on Instagram
Shah Rukh Khan also reacted to the incident, posting on X:
https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1933139614006460645?s=46
“Absolutely heartbroken with the news about the crash in Ahmedabad… my prayers for the victims, their families and all affected.”
Actress Anushka Sharma shared her condolences via Instagram Story, writing:
“Saddened to hear about the plane crash today. Thoughts and prayers with the passengers and their families.”
Aamir Khan, through his Aamir Khan Productions Instagram page, offered solidarity with the message:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash that occurred today… Stay strong India. Team AKP.”
About the Crash:
Air India flight AI-171, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, took off at 13:39 IST (08:09 UTC) from Runway 23. Shortly after departure, the pilots issued a Mayday call, but communication was lost soon after. The aircraft crashed just outside the airport perimeter.
- 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian national were onboard.
- The sole survivor is a British national of Indian origin, as confirmed by airline authorities.
- The plane was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with over 8,200 flying hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 flying hours.
Government Response:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ahmedabad the following morning to inspect the crash site and visit the injured at the Civil Hospital.
This disaster has sent shockwaves across the nation and beyond, with celebrities, citizens, and leaders coming together in collective grief and solidarity.