Mumbai, June 17 — A solemn silence blanketed Jal Vayu Vihar in Powai as the mortal remains of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, pilot of the ill-fated Air India Flight AI-171, returned home. The 56-year-old veteran aviator, who perished in the tragic Ahmedabad crash on June 12, was laid to rest amid an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and colleagues. His 88-year-old father, Pushkaraj Sabharwal, stood beside his son’s coffin, performing the final prayer rituals with trembling hands and tear-filled eyes. “He promised to retire soon and take care of me,” he whispered to mourners, his voice breaking under the weight of loss. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff, claiming 270 lives, including 29 on the ground. Only one passenger survived. Captain Sabharwal, with over 8,200 hours of flying experience, reportedly issued a mayday in a final act of bravery, possibly steering the aircraft away from more densely populated areas. Hundreds gathered to pay their respects—neighbors, fellow pilots, and dignitaries alike. “He was a man of duty and dignity,” said a former colleague. “His final moments were a testament to his courage.”The casket was later taken to Chakala electric crematorium for the last rites. As chants echoed through the temple and sobs filled the air, Mumbai bid farewell to a son who soared high and fell in service.
“Captain Sabharwal Laid to Rest Amid Tears and Tributes, Father’s Embrace Speaks Volumes”
