A joyful vacation turned into heartbreak when Air India Flight AI171 crashed on June 12, 2025, just seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India. Among the 52 British nationals killed were Akeel Nanabawa, his partner Hannaa Vorajee, and their 4-year-old daughter Sara, who were returning home to Gloucester, England.

The flight, bound for London Gatwick with 242 people on board, failed to gain altitude and crashed into a residential area. The tragedy devastated their loved ones and left their community in mourning.

Akeel, originally from Newport, was remembered for his “quiet generosity,” and Hannaa, a nonprofit director, was praised for her “warmth and kindness.” Their daughter Sara was lovingly described as a “ray of sunshine.”

“They were widely loved and deeply respected,” said Imam Abdullah Samad. Temple trustee Neetu Bhardwaj added, “When they hurt, we hurt.”

Messages of sorrow flooded social media. “Akeel what a lovely guy you was,” wrote Anthony Baker. Aneesa Singh said, “I’ll cherish memories we made together forever.”