London Vigil Honors Victims of Air India Ahmedabad Crash

In a poignant gathering held on June 15, 2025, approximately 200 individuals from the Gujarati community convened behind the Indian High Commission in London to honor the over 270 victims of the recent Air India disaster in Ahmedabad. This tragic event has left a deep emotional impact on British-Indians, many of whom feel a personal connection to the victims.

As the sun streamed down on the somber occasion, attendees illuminated the area with candles placed beneath a bust of Jawaharlal Nehru, listening to interfaith leaders and community representatives as they shared reflections on the profound loss experienced by families. Ridhi Sarmah-Kapoor and Olivia Gearson, two students with familial ties to India, expressed their grief, noting, "It gives it a personal connection – it’s like these people are my family," and emphasized the need to commemorate those who perished, including parents returning for significant life events like graduations.

The vigil was one of many across the United Kingdom, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the Gujarati community, which has been reeling from the tragedy. According to Mayur Shikotra, one of the vigil's organizers, the community is deeply intertwined, with many attendees having direct connections to the victims. "We needed somewhere to mourn," he stated, emphasizing the shared sense of grief and the urgency for answers regarding the incident. The Air India crash is one of the deadliest air disasters in Indian history, prompting discussions about accountability and safety.

Narendra Thakerar, another attendee, remarked on the shock of the tragedy, stating, "It’s a tragedy that no one prepares for, it’s humbling and just a reminder about how fragile we are." Participants voiced the need for a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash, with many expressing concerns about the aircraft’s safety. The Boeing 787, the model involved in the incident, has been under scrutiny, especially with the recent acquisition of Air India by Tata Group, which has committed to upgrading its fleet.

The emotional toll on the community has been significant, with many sharing personal stories of how they have been affected by the tragedy. For instance, Mahesh Patel highlighted the complexities surrounding aging aircraft, stating, "The problem is when you’re dealing with old planes that have been sold and resold and used and used."

As the UK and Indian governments continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, the community awaits answers and hopes for a sense of closure. The tragedy has not only sparked discussions about aviation safety but also raised questions about the emotional and psychological impacts on families left behind.

The call for accountability extends to Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, with many in the community advocating for a thorough examination of the aircraft's maintenance history and operational safety. The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the responsibilities of airlines and manufacturers in ensuring passenger safety.

This vigil is a testament to the resilience of the community and their commitment to honoring the memories of those lost. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community solidarity in times of tragedy. As investigations progress, families hope to receive clarity and acknowledgment of their loss, as well as measures to prevent such disasters in the future.