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New Delhi: Wing Commander Namansh Syal’s mortal remains were brought to his native village in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, where his final rites are scheduled to be performed. His wife, Wing Commander Afshan, also an Indian Air Force (IAF) officer, led the tribute with an emotional farewell.
According to visuals shared by ANI, she was seen paying her last respects with tears in her eyes, before stepping forward to salute her husband as he was laid to rest with full military honours.
IAF personnel present at the ceremony offered a ceremonial gun salute as the tricolour-draped coffin arrived in Patialkar village. Hundreds of villagers gathered to pay their respects and catch one final glimpse of the 34-year-old officer, remembered across the country for his service and dedication. The IAF had earlier described him as a “dedicated fighter pilot” and “thorough professional” known for his “unwavering commitment and exceptional skill”.
Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed grief over the tragic loss. Tributes also poured in from public figures, including actor Kamal Haasan, who called him “a brave son of India taken far too soon.”
The fatal crash occurred during a routine aerobatic demonstration at the Dubai Airshow, one of the world’s largest aviation showcases featuring participation from over 150 countries. Videos from the final day captured the Tejas fighter jet suddenly pitching forward before erupting in flames and sending thick smoke billowing across the venue. A court of inquiry is examining the cause of the accident.
Wing Commander Syal, an alumnus of Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, was commissioned into the IAF in December 2009. Colleagues and friends have remembered him as an exceptional officer who embodied discipline, courage and professionalism throughout his career.
