A solemn remembrance ceremony was held in Rajkot on 12 June 2025 to mark the first death anniversary of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who perished in the Air India Flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad — a disaster that claimed 241 of the 242 people on board and stands among India's deadliest aviation tragedies in recent memory. Family members, community leaders, and political figures gathered to honour his memory through prayer, service, and reflection.

Remembrance Programme in Rajkot

The Jain Vision Group organised a day-long 'Navkar mantra' chanting programme in Rajkot to commemorate the occasion. Members of the Rupani family were present, including his wife Anjali Rupani and son Rishabh Rupani. Former Rajkot Mayor Dhansukh Bhaderi also attended, along with community members who paid their respects to the former Chief Minister.

Jain representative Milan Kothari said activities had been organised from sunrise to sunset, encompassing bhajans, food distribution, cow service, and collective Navkar mantra chanting. Contributions were also extended to charitable organisations involved in food and service work, and donations were made to a deaf and mute ashram as part of the commemorative efforts.

'Food-related service initiatives were carried out for the peace of the departed souls of Vijaybhai and all those who passed away in the flight,' Kothari said.

Tributes to Rupani's Leadership

Former Mayor Dhansukh Bhaderi described the loss of Rupani as deeply felt by those who knew him. He recalled Rupani's distinctive leadership style — grounded, personally engaging, and attentive to party workers. 'Rupani's guidance and approach to public life continued to be remembered and followed by workers,' Bhaderi said, noting that the former Chief Minister used to address workers by name and maintain close contact with party members.

The Air India AI-171 Crash: Background

The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating as Air India Flight AI-171 crashed shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on 12 June 2024, striking a medical college hostel and causing fatalities both on board and on the ground. According to officials, 241 passengers and crew were killed, along with 19 additional people on the ground. Only one passenger survived the incident.

The crash is widely regarded as one of India's most catastrophic aviation disasters in recent years. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is continuing its investigation into the cause, with final findings still awaited.

Investigation Status

The AAIB has not yet released its final report on the AI-171 crash. The investigation is ongoing, and the precise sequence of events leading to the aircraft striking buildings near the airport shortly after take-off remains under scrutiny. Families of the victims, including the Rupani family, continue to await the bureau's conclusions.