The British Indian community in London is in deep mourning following the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff, claimed the lives of 241 people, including passengers, crew members, and several individuals on the ground. Among the victims was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who had visited a prominent Hindu temple in London during his time in office.

The London temple, a place of solace and community for many British Indians, is now a focal point for grief and remembrance. Dozens of community members have gathered there to mourn the victims, offer prayers, and support one another during this difficult time. The temple, which once welcomed Rupani, now echoes with sorrow as community members grapple with the magnitude of the tragedy.

The Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The aircraft struck a doctors' hostel at BJ Medical College, erupting into flames upon impact. The impact and subsequent fire were so intense that traditional methods of identification were impossible, necessitating DNA testing to identify the victims.

Gujarat's health minister confirmed that 274 people died in the crash, including those on the ground. Among the deceased were medical students, resident doctors from Ahmedabad's BJ Medical College, and their relatives. Heartbreakingly, two little girls, aged eight and four, were orphaned after losing their father in the crash, just 18 days after their mother succumbed to cancer.

The sole survivor of the crash has been identified as Vishwas Kumar, a 40-year-old British national of Indian origin. He miraculously escaped death while his brother, AJ, who was also on the same flight, is believed to be among the deceased.

News reports indicate that Rupani had initially booked his flight to London for May 19, but later changed his plans twice before finally booking the fatal flight for June 12.

Authorities are working diligently to identify the victims and return their remains to their families. DNA testing has been crucial in this process, with the state's Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) leading the identification efforts. As of June 15, 2025, 45 victims have been identified through DNA matching, and 14 bodies have been handed over to their families. The DNA matching process for Rupani was also completed, and his funeral is scheduled to be held on Monday with full state honors.

Air India has announced an interim financial assistance package of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased and for the lone survivor, in addition to the Rs 1 crore compensation already pledged by parent company Tata Sons.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are investigating the cause of the crash.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the British Indian community in London, with many expressing their grief and disbelief. The temple, a symbol of their cultural and spiritual identity, has become a sanctuary for those seeking comfort and solace. The community is united in its grief and determination to support the families of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.