Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old businessman from Leicester, became the only survivor of the devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 241 people on board and nearly 30 on the ground. The tragedy struck shortly after takeoff when flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed into a medical college hostel, leaving a trail of destruction and heartbreak. Vishwash and his brother Ajay were both passengers on the ill-fated flight, returning to the UK after visiting family in Diu, Gujarat.

After miraculously escaping with minor injuries by jumping out of an emergency exit next to his seat 11A, Vishwash was rushed to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. He was discharged on Tuesday evening, just hours before his brother Ajay’s remains were handed over to the family following DNA confirmation. The emotional toll was evident as Vishwash, still bandaged from his injuries, carried his brother’s flower-adorned coffin to the cremation ground in Diu, a town mourning the loss of 14 residents in the disaster.

The funeral, held on Wednesday, drew relatives, friends, and local community members, all united in grief. Videos from the ceremony showed Vishwash visibly distraught, sobbing as he performed the last rites for Ajay. Their family, already devastated by the loss, received support from the Leicester community and called for more assistance from authorities to help families navigate the aftermath of the tragedy. Ajay’s younger brother, Nayan, described the pain and shock that had engulfed the family, emphasizing the close bond shared by the siblings.

The crash has prompted ongoing investigations by Indian authorities and Air India, as families continue to seek answers and closure. The airline has expressed condolences and is working to repatriate the deceased while supporting affected families. For Vishwash, survival has come with the heavy burden of loss, marking a chapter of profound sorrow and resilience.