UK-based father Arjun Patolia died in the tragic crash of Air India flight AI-171 just after fulfilling his late wife’s final wish—immersing her ashes in India’s sacred Narmada River. Arjun had flown alone to her village for the ceremony and was on his way back to reunite with their two daughters, aged four and eight, when the plane went down shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad.

The crash claimed many lives, including Arjun’s. Air India confirmed all 242 people aboard were affected, offering ₹96 lakh ($116,000) in compensation per victim—an offer many online have criticized as inadequate and insulting. Grieving users expressed outrage on social media, demanding accountability from the Tata-owned airline.

Meanwhile, another family’s tragedy unfolded on the same flight. Brothers Ajaykumar and Viswash Ramesh were returning to the UK after a business trip. Viswash, seated near an emergency exit, survived; Ajay did not. Viswash, now recovering in an Indian hospital, is haunted by the moment. “Find Ajay,” he keeps repeating. Their brother Nayankumar said the family is devastated.

The plane’s pilot issued a Mayday call moments before the Boeing 787 crashed into a densely populated neighborhood, erupting in flames. Despite emergency efforts, the incident left the nation in mourning. Leaders in both India and the UK expressed sorrow, while loved ones of the victims now search for answers—and justice.