A wave of grief has swept through Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district after the tragic death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who lost his life when the indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft crashed during a practice sortie at the Dubai Air Show on Friday afternoon.
In Patialakad village under the Nagrota Bagwan Assembly constituency, the atmosphere has turned painfully silent. People who grew up watching Namansh chase his dreams now struggle to believe that the young pilot who once carried their hopes to the skies is no longer alive.
A Pilot Known for Precision and Discipline
Wing Commander Syal, just 34, had earned admiration within the Indian Air Force for his calm composure and sharp flying skills. He was posted at the Hyderabad Air Force base and was part of the Tejas demonstration team.
He is survived by his wife Afsaan, also serving as a commissioned officer in the Indian Air Force, and their five-year-old daughter. His parents — father Jagan Nath, a retired Army officer and former school principal, and mother Bina Devi — were already in Hyderabad visiting their son and daughter-in-law when the tragedy took place.
Shock, Tears and a Village Waiting
The Syal family home in the village has remained locked for days, a quiet reminder of a family suddenly struck by unimaginable loss. The village pradhan, Mamta, said she managed to speak briefly with Bina Devi after the news broke.
“She could barely talk,” Mamta recalled. “Her voice was trembling… she was shattered.”
Residents say the roads leading to the Syal home have seen a steady stream of villagers, not to meet — but simply to stand in silence, trying to process the heartbreaking news.
A Son Kangra Was Proud Of
Locals remember Namansh as a polite boy, focused and determined even during his school days. His achievements brought pride not just to his family, but to every household in Patialakad.
Former pradhan Sanjay Kumar Chaudhary said the news felt like a personal loss to everyone.
“He wasn’t just a pilot,” he said. “He was a symbol of dreams, discipline, and courage. The entire region was proud of him.”
Leaders Pay Tribute
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and described Wing Commander Syal as a brave and committed officer.
The Chief Minister said the nation owes gratitude to officers like him, who dedicate their lives to defending the skies.
Last Journey Expected Soon
According to local officials, the mortal remains of Wing Commander Syal are expected to reach his native village by Sunday, where he will be given a full military farewell. Residents have already started preparing to welcome their hero home — not the way they ever imagined, but with the respect he earned through service, duty, and sacrifice.