Several Ganpati pandals in India have recreated the June 12 Air India crash scene as the theme for the Ganpati pandal this year. This move has triggered widespread backlash, with many people on the internet calling it “disrespectful and distasteful”. Reports suggest that one such pandal is in Nagpur, while another has been set up in Ahmedabad. People online said that more such pandals have been seen across the country.
Air India Crash-Themed Ganpati Pandals
On June 12, the world saw one of the worst air tragedies in recent times when an Air India flight crashed into a hostel building in Ahmedabad. 12 crew members and 229 of the 230 passengers on board were killed in this crash. This aviation tragedy has become the theme for several Gapati pandals in India this year.
According to Hindustan Times, a Ganpati pandal in Nagpur recreated the unfortunate Air India crash. The organising committee has installed a 3D model of an aircraft at the entry gate, recreating the Air India plane that tragically crashed into a hostel building in Ahmedabad. The main pandal looks like the inside of an aircraft as well.
Another Ganpati pandal made with the Air India crash-theme is in Ahmedabad. This pandal shows great details of the crash site–right from burning buildings to rescue workers on the site. These videos have amassed millions of views on different social media platforms.
Netizens Call Out Distasteful Theme
Many people reshared the viral videos and expressed how distasteful these Air India crash-themed Ganpati pandals are. One netizen called out the organisers and said, “It’s deeply disrespectful to the victims, their families, and the entire aviation community.”
Another user added, “This isn’t the only one online. I have come across 2-3 already. Being a crew with AI for almost 15 years. These tableaus are nothing but disrespect to us and somewhere the society’s reminder to us: We will never make you forget.”
Someone said, “I am most appalled! Just outrageous.”
“So disrespectful. I wonder how people even get these ideas and they don’t even think twice before doing such things,” another netizen commented.
Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: 5 Most Unique Ganesha Pandals In India This Year
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@Vinamralongani & Instagram/aircrew.in
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