In one of the most heart-wrenching incidents from the Air India Flight AI171 crash, the story of 55-year-old Raxa Modha and her 2-year-old grandson Rudra has left people across the world emotional. What began as a journey of faith and commitment ended in deep sorrow when the flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, killing nearly all on board.
A Trip Rooted in Love and Tradition
Raxa, a resident of the UK, had recently lost her husband, Kishor Modha, in April 2025. As per his last wish, he wanted to spend his final days in his home country, India. The Modha family had travelled from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, to Gujarat so Kishor could breathe his last in his homeland.
After his passing, Raxa stayed back to complete the religious rituals and prayer ceremonies. With the rites completed, she was returning to the UK along with her grandson, Rudra, on the ill-fated Air India AI171 flight — a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner headed to Gatwick, London.
32 Seconds That Changed Many Lives
Shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport, within just 32 seconds, the plane began to descend abnormally. Before any proper communication could be made, the aircraft crashed into the B.J. Medical College hostel, killing almost everyone on board and many on the ground.
Raxa and little Rudra were among the 242 people on the flight. Tragically, only one passenger survived, while more than 265 lives were lost, including passengers, crew members, and hostel residents.
A Family’s World Turned Upside Down
Raxa’s son, Kishan Modha, had a narrow escape — he was scheduled to fly back on a different flight, which saved his life. However, in a matter of just three months, Kishan lost his father, mother, and only child. The loss is unimaginable. Friends and community members back in the UK say the Modha family was widely respected, known for their catering business, Pooja Caterers.
Nation Mourns the Deadliest Air Crash in Recent Years
The crash also claimed the life of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and many medical students staying at the hostel. The tragedy has now become one of the most serious aviation disasters in Indian history.
Authorities are still examining the cause of the crash. Early reports suggest there may have been a technical failure, but the black box and flight recorder are under analysis. Eyewitnesses say they saw the plane wobble in the air and heard strange sounds before the fall.
A Mother’s Love, A Grandmother’s Promise
Raxa’s journey was not just about returning home. It was about fulfilling a sacred duty — carrying her husband’s ashes back to the UK for the final part of the rituals. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, and now remembered as a heroic figure, who carried out her promise with dignity.
Conclusion
This story is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be. A son, who now bears the weight of losing his entire family, reminds us of the deep emotional costs behind news headlines. While investigations are ongoing, one thing is certain — the crash of AI171 has left behind scars that will take a long time to heal.
May Raxa, Rudra, and all those lost in the crash rest in peace.
FAQs
What was the reason behind the Air India AI171 crash?
The exact cause is still under investigation. A technical failure is suspected, and black box data is being analyzed.
Who was Raxa Modha?
Raxa Modha was a UK-based Indian woman who lost her life along with her grandson while returning from India after completing her husband’s last rites.
Was there any survivor from the crash?
Yes, only one person survived the crash. The passenger was sitting near the emergency exit and escaped before the explosion.
Where did the plane crash happen?
The plane crashed into the B.J. Medical College hostel in Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad.
How is the Modha family connected to the UK?
The family lived in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, and ran a catering business named Pooja Caterers.