The tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon has left the nation mourning, with many celebrities expressing their deep sorrow and extending condolences to the victims and their families. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after takeoff near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, in the Meghani Nagar area, causing devastation and shock across the country.
Actor Anushka Sharma took to Instagram Stories to share her heartfelt sympathies: "Saddened to hear about the plane crash today. Thoughts and prayers with the passengers and their families." Her message echoed the grief felt by many as the tragedy unfolded.
Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut described the incident as “extremely tragic and painful” and prayed for strength for the affected families: "I pray to God for everyone's safety, may God provide strength to all affected families in this hour of crisis."
Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar shared a brief but powerful message on X, expressing his shock: "Shocked and speechless at the Air India crash. Only prayers at this time."
Flight AI-171 departed Ahmedabad at 1:38 pm IST, carrying 242 people, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian national. The aircraft crashed just moments after takeoff, falling outside the airport perimeter and sending heavy black smoke billowing from the site. The devastating incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and prayers from across the country, as rescue and investigation efforts continue.