In the aftermath of the tragic Air India Flight 171 crash near Ahmedabad on Thursday, June 12, 2025, a remarkable discovery has emerged from the debris: an almost entirely intact copy of the Bhagavad Gita. The incident, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, along with 24 individuals on the ground after the Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a medical college hostel, has left the nation in mourning. Amidst the charred remains of the aircraft, the discovery of the unscathed holy book has sparked a wave of reactions, ranging from spiritual solace to philosophical contemplation.
Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, erupting in a massive fire that consumed most of the plane. Only one passenger, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, survived the devastating incident. The discovery of the Bhagavad Gita amidst the wreckage has been described as nothing short of a miracle by many. Despite the intense heat generated by the burning of approximately 125,000 liters of fuel, the pages of the scripture remained largely undamaged, with its text and images clearly visible. The book's cover showed minor signs of damage.
The Bhagavad Gita, a central text in Hindu philosophy, explores themes of duty, morality, and the nature of life and death. Its teachings offer guidance on navigating life's challenges with wisdom and inner peace. In the context of the air disaster, the Gita's presence has been interpreted by some as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of faith. Several spiritual leaders have referenced its teachings to provide comfort to those grappling with grief and uncertainty.
The image and video of the intact Bhagavad Gita quickly went viral on social media, drawing diverse reactions. Many users expressed astonishment and a sense of divine intervention, while others viewed it as a poignant coincidence. The incident has prompted discussions about faith, the human search for meaning in times of profound loss, and the role of symbolism in coping with tragedy.
Union Minister Amit Shah, who visited the crash site, acknowledged the extreme temperatures caused by the burning fuel, underscoring the unlikelihood of anything surviving the inferno in good condition. The survival of the Gita has thus become a focal point of reflection and discussion.
Meanwhile, investigations into the cause of the crash are underway. Authorities have recovered the aircraft's black box, which is expected to provide crucial insights into the events leading up to the disaster. The sole survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, is currently receiving treatment in an Ahmedabad hospital. He recounted the terrifying experience, stating that the aircraft felt stuck moments after takeoff before crashing into a building.
As the investigation progresses and the community mourns the lives lost, the intact Bhagavad Gita serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring human spirit and the search for solace in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Whether viewed as a miracle or a remarkable coincidence, its presence amidst the devastation offers a beacon of hope and a call to reflection during this difficult time.
