Filmmaker Mahesh Jirawala Missing After Air India AI-171 Crash in Ahmedabad; Family Submits DNA Sample

In the aftermath of the tragic Air India flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, the family of regional filmmaker Mahesh Kalawadia, also known professionally as Mahesh Jirawala, has submitted DNA samples to authorities in hopes of confirming his whereabouts. Kalawadia has been missing since the day of the crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025.

The aircraft, which took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM, crashed just minutes later into a medical college campus in Meghaninagar, killing 241 out of 242 people onboard and 29 individuals on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Indian history.

Kalawadia, a resident of Naroda, had reportedly gone to meet someone near Law Garden that afternoon. According to his wife, Hetal Kalawadia, he called her at 1:14 PM, informing her that his meeting had ended and he was heading home.

"My husband called me at 1.14 PM to tell me his meeting was over. But when he didn't return, I tried calling him and his phone was switched off," Hetal told PTI.

The last known location of his mobile phone showed it was just 700 meters away from the crash site, adding to the family's distress. His phone reportedly switched off at 1:40 PM, roughly one minute after the ill-fated flight took off. Kalawadia's scooter and mobile phone are also missing.

"He never used that route to come home," Hetal added. "We've now submitted DNA samples, fearing he may be among those killed on the ground."

Due to the high-intensity fire and impact from the crash, many bodies have been charred beyond recognition, making DNA testing essential for identification. Authorities have confirmed that 47 victims have been identified through DNA analysis so far, with 24 bodies handed over to their families.

Both black boxes-the Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder-have been recovered and are currently under analysis to help determine the exact cause of the crash.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), along with assistance from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), is leading the probe, given the aircraft's American origin.

As the investigation continues, the Kalawadia family is left waiting, clinging to hope.

"We are praying he is alive somewhere... but each day that passes without news is unbearable," Hetal said, her voice trembling.

This tragedy has shaken the entire nation and raised critical questions about aviation safety and emergency preparedness. For families like the Kalawadias, the wait for closure is agonizing.