Gujarati filmmaker Mahesh Jirawala among victims of Ahmedabad plane crash, reports confirm

Gujarati filmmaker Mahesh Kalawadia, better known as Mahesh Jirawala, has been officially confirmed as one of the victims in the recent Ahmedabad plane crash. His death, initially suspected, was later validated through a DNA report.

Jirawala had gone missing from the Shahibaug area on the day of the crash, prompting immediate concerns. A burnt Activa scooter, reportedly registered in his name, was discovered near the crash site, raising suspicions. His mobile phone, which was last active in the vicinity, had since been switched off.

Despite growing evidence, the family was hesitant to accept the remains, shaken by the sudden loss. It was only after the police submitted the scooter’s chassis verification and DNA confirmation that the family agreed to claim his body. The emotional toll delayed their acceptance, but they eventually consented, supported by authorities.

The crash, which has turned into one of the country’s worst aviation disasters, killed 241 individuals — 212 on board and 29 on the ground. So far, 231 DNA identifications have been completed, with 210 bodies returned to grieving families. The deceased include 155 Indian nationals, 36 from the UK, seven Portuguese citizens, one Canadian, and nine local residents.

Jirawala lived in Naroda and was active in Gujarat’s music and film scene. As the founder of Mahesh Jirawala Productions, he had directed numerous Gujarati music videos and advertorials. His 2019 film, Cocktail Premi Pag Of Revenge, featured actors Asha Panchal and Vruti Thakkar in leading roles. He frequently shared work updates on Instagram and was seen as a passionate creator within the regional circuit. He is survived by his wife Hetal, a son, and a daughter. His untimely passing has left a noticeable void in Gujarat’s creative community. In a tragic twist, a 40-year-old British businessman named Vishwas from Leicester has been identified as the sole survivor of the crash. His testimony may prove critical as investigations into the incident continue.