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Father of Air India Crash Victim Reflects on Loss and New Beginnings
A year on, Air India crash victims' father rebuilds life, says son kept his promise even after death
The Economic Times
Image: The Economic Times
Nearly a year after the tragic Air India flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, Girdharbhai Kalawadia, father of victim Mahesh Jirawala, reflects on his son's promise to rebuild the family’s life. Despite the loss, the family has moved into a new home, funded by compensation received after the tragedy.
- 01Mahesh Jirawala was among 260 victims of the Air India flight AI-171 crash on June 12, which also killed 19 people on the ground.
- 02The Kalawadia family received a total compensation of ₹1.29 crore (approximately $155,000 USD) from various sources.
- 03Girdharbhai used part of the compensation to pay off ₹15 lakh (about $18,000 USD) in debts and purchased a flat for ₹45 lakh (around $54,000 USD).
- 04Mahesh's younger brother, Kartik, has opened a hair-cutting salon to help stabilize the family's finances.
- 05Girdharbhai emphasizes that the dignity the family enjoys today is a result of Mahesh's dreams and sacrifices.
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Girdharbhai Kalawadia, a grieving father from Ahmedabad, reflects on the loss of his son Mahesh Jirawala, who died in the Air India flight AI-171 crash nearly a year ago. Mahesh, a 34-year-old filmmaker, had promised to support his family, and despite his death, Girdharbhai feels that promise has been fulfilled. The family received ₹1.29 crore (approximately $155,000 USD) in compensation, which allowed them to pay off debts and purchase a modest flat in Naroda. Girdharbhai, who underwent heart surgery shortly before the crash, recalls how Mahesh had urged him to retire and assured him he would take care of the family. Now, Girdharbhai lives with his wife, younger son Kartik, and granddaughter, as they strive to rebuild their lives. Kartik has opened a hair salon to contribute to the family's finances, and Girdharbhai hopes for a brighter future, including Kartik's remarriage. The family's journey illustrates resilience in the face of tragedy and the enduring impact of Mahesh's love and commitment.
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The family's financial stability has improved due to the compensation received, allowing them to purchase a home and start new ventures.
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