In a heart-wrenching yet dignified ceremony, Wing Commander Afshan paid her final respects to her husband, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who tragically lost his life in a Tejas jet crash during the Dubai Airshow 2025. The 34-year-old pilot’s mortal remains were transported from the UAE to Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, for his last rites on November 23. Accompanied by their young daughter and supported by Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, Wing Commander Afshan stood with remarkable composure, saluting her husband as a final tribute to his bravery and service. The poignant moment unfolded before a gathering of officials, family members, and civilians, all united in mourning the loss of a courageous officer. Wing Commander Syal’s remains were first taken to Air Force Station Sulur in Tamil Nadu, where IAF officials paid homage. He was a member of the No. 45 Squadron, famously known as the “Flying Daggers.” The crash occurred during a demonstration flight on November 21, leaving spectators in shock as the Tejas aircraft nosedived and erupted into flames. The IAF has initiated a court of inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident. Condolences poured in from across India, with political leaders, celebrities, and citizens expressing their grief. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and actor Kamal Haasan were among those who honored Wing Commander Syal, describing him as a dedicated and skilled professional who made the ultimate sacrifice for his nation.
Tearful goodbye: Wing Commander Afshan salutes husband Namansh Syal, fallen Tejas pilot
