‘Theek ho?’ daily calls from Pakistani friend keep Air India crash memory alive

A tragic air crash and an unexpected human bond have created a story of grief, healing, and cross-border friendship that continues to unfold every day.

A tragic air crash and an unexpected human bond have created a story of grief, healing, and cross-border friendship that continues to unfold every day.

The story begins with the devastating Air India crash on 12 June 2025, when a Boeing 787 Dreamliner flying from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after take-off. The accident killed 241 passengers, leaving only one survivor. Among the victims were Kamlesh Chaudhary and his wife Dhapuben, whose lives were cut short within seconds of departure.

For Kamlesh’s family in Banaskantha district of Gujarat, life changed forever after the tragedy. His father, Savdhanbhai Chaudhary, and mother were left in deep emotional shock following the loss of their son and daughter-in-law.

In the days and months after the crash, an unusual connection formed between grief and compassion. Omar Ali, a Pakistani national and former colleague of Kamlesh working in London, began reaching out to the bereaved family.

What started as a simple gesture of condolence soon turned into a daily routine. Every day, without fail, Omar Ali calls or sends a message to Savdhanbhai. His conversation always begins with the same words: “Theek ho? Kaise ho aap?”

These calls have continued for nearly a year, becoming a source of emotional support for the grieving family. Despite the geographical distance between Pakistan, India, and the United Kingdom, the bond has remained strong and consistent.

Savdhanbhai says that Omar often asks about small details of daily life, including health, food, and routine matters. The conversations are simple, but they bring comfort during ongoing sorrow.

Omar Ali has expressed that his connection with the family feels personal and meaningful. He believes the friendship was made possible through Kamlesh, who served as a bridge between their lives. According to him, the conversations provide emotional peace and help keep Kamlesh’s memory alive.

The Air India crash itself remains one of the most debated aviation disasters in recent years. Investigations into the cause are still ongoing, with multiple theories under discussion, including technical failures and cockpit-related events. However, no final conclusion has been officially confirmed.

While aviation experts and investigators continue to analyze data, families of the victims remain focused on remembrance and healing rather than technical findings.

For Savdhanbhai Chaudhary, the daily calls from Omar Ali have become more than just communication. They represent empathy that transcends borders, religion, and nationality.