The Final Photo: A Tragic Story of a Rajasthan Doctor’s Family on the Fateful Air India AI171 Flight

Thursday evening marked one of the darkest chapters in India’s aviation history. Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed catastrophically, claiming 241 lives out of the 242 people onboard — including passengers and crew. The tragedy struck not only with its sheer scale of loss but also with the haunting individual stories behind those who perished. One such story was that of the Joshi family from Rajasthan.

Dr. Kaumi Vyas, her husband Dr. Pratik Joshi, and their three young children — Miraya (8), and twins Pradyut and Nakul (5) — were among those on the flight. They were headed to the United Kingdom, filled with hope and excitement, ready to begin a new chapter of their lives. It was a journey they had long planned, filled with dreams of reunification and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Pratik had been living and working in London for two years. A skilled medical professional, he had moved ahead to lay the groundwork for their eventual relocation. Kaumi, also a doctor, stayed in Banswara, Rajasthan with their children, managing both her career and parenting. The decision to move as a family had not been easy. It came after years of planning, navigating immigration procedures, and endless discussions over what was best for their children’s future.

As their departure day approached, the excitement in the household grew. Bags were packed with clothes, toys, family keepsakes, and the hopes of a better life abroad. For the children, it was their first international journey. Miraya had even started learning about life in the UK, dreaming of snow, parks, and a new school. She often talked about becoming a doctor like her parents — her idols.

On the afternoon of the flight, the family arrived at Ahmedabad International Airport. Witnesses reported seeing them smiling, interacting kindly with airline staff and fellow passengers. The children were wearing matching outfits, their faces glowing with anticipation. As they boarded the plane, they took a moment to capture the moment — a simple selfie.

In the photo, now widely circulated across social media, Pratik and Kaumi are seated next to each other, their smiles bright and genuine. Behind them, their three children beam into the camera, completely unaware of what was to come. The photo was shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Kaumi with the caption: “A new chapter begins. See you soon, London.”

But within the hour, their dreams were shattered. According to initial investigations, the Boeing aircraft encountered unexpected turbulence shortly after takeoff. Witnesses from nearby villages described hearing a loud rumble, followed by a terrifying explosion. The plane went down in a densely forested area approximately 43 kilometers from Ahmedabad. Emergency responders arrived to find wreckage strewn across several kilometers, with smoke and fire hampering rescue efforts.

Out of the 242 people on board, only one person survived — a 26-year-old woman from Mumbai who was found in the tail section of the plane. Her survival is being hailed as miraculous. The rest, including the Joshi family, were declared dead at the scene.

News of the crash spread rapidly. The Joshi family’s photo, once a symbol of joyful departure, became a viral image of unthinkable loss. Condolences poured in from across India and around the world. On social media, thousands shared the selfie with messages of grief and solidarity. Celebrities, public figures, and even international leaders reacted, calling it a “gut-wrenching reminder of life’s fragility.”

In Banswara, the family’s hometown, the mood was somber. Their neighbors, relatives, and local officials gathered outside the family’s residence, lighting candles and offering prayers. The local school held a memorial service in honor of Miraya, Pradyut, and Nakul. Teachers recalled how polite and bright the children were, always eager to participate and help their classmates.

Dr. Kaumi Vyas was known in the community for her warmth and dedication. She worked at a local hospital, where she was beloved by patients and colleagues alike. Many of her coworkers described her as “selfless,” “calm under pressure,” and “a doctor who truly cared.”

Pratik, too, was respected by his peers in the UK medical community. His colleagues at the London hospital where he worked described him as “brilliant and compassionate,” with a quiet drive to improve patients’ lives. He had recently received a commendation for his research in pediatric care.

The crash not only left a void in the hearts of loved ones but also raised questions about air safety and emergency response mechanisms. Aviation authorities have launched a full-scale investigation, involving teams from India, Boeing, and international safety organizations. Preliminary analysis points to a possible mechanical failure exacerbated by extreme weather conditions. The black box has been recovered and is currently under examination.

Meanwhile, Air India has promised to provide full support to the families of the victims. A special helpline has been established, and compensation packages are being organized. In an official statement, the airline said: “We are devastated by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of all passengers and crew. We will leave no stone unturned to assist in every way possible.”

The Indian government has declared a national day of mourning. Flags flew at half-mast, and schools held moments of silence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a heartfelt message on social media, stating: “The air disaster in Ahmedabad is an irreparable loss. Prayers for the departed souls and strength for those left behind.”

Despite the outpouring of support, the reality remains stark. An entire family, bound by love and dreams, disappeared in a matter of seconds. They had so much to live for — their careers, their children’s future, the new life they were just beginning. What remains now are memories, shared stories, and one photograph.

That selfie — filled with joy, hope, and unity — stands as a poignant reminder of how unpredictable life can be. It is both a testament to the love the Joshi family shared and a symbol of all that was lost in the crash.

In a handwritten note found in one of Miraya’s schoolbooks, she had written: “When I go to London, I’ll build a treehouse and become a doctor. I’ll help kids just like my parents do.”

Her dream, like so many others on that flight, will now never be realized. But in their loss, the Joshi family leaves behind a powerful message: to cherish every moment, to love without reservation, and to live each day with gratitude.

As one tribute posted online read:

“Though their hearts no longer beat, the love they shared echoes forever. The world is dimmer without them, but heaven gained five stars that now shine down upon us.”