Newport family who died in Air India crash 'widely loved'

South Wales Argus

a day ago

Akeel Nanabawa, Hannaa Vorajee, and their four-year-old daughter Sara Nanabawa were returning to the UK from a surprise trip to India when their plane crashed into a residential area, hitting a hospital and a student hostel.
The family, originally from Newport but living in Gloucester, were described as "kind" in a tribute shared by Imam Abdullah Samad.
Mr Samad said: "We are heartbroken as we await further information regarding our beloved family members who were on board the Air India flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick.
"The news of this tragic incident has left us devastated, and we are still coming to terms with the enormity of what has happened.
"This young family was incredibly close-knit – devoted parents and their beautiful young daughter."
The family were active members of the community, regularly volunteering at a local Islamic school and other community projects.
Hannaa was also a director at Peace Inclusion, an organisation aimed at fostering understanding of Islam through education and dialogue.
Mr Samad added: "They were compassionate, active members of the community who regularly volunteered at our local Islamic school and for various local projects.
"Their sense of justice and service extended far beyond Gloucester.
"Together, they were committed advocates for humanitarian causes – particularly the suffering of innocent Palestinians and the urgent need for accessible medical care in parts of India.
"They gave their time and energy to awareness campaigns and fundraising efforts, always guided by a strong sense of responsibility to help others."
Their loss has left a void in the community, with Mr Samad describing the family as "a pillar of strength in our lives."
He added: "They were widely loved and deeply respected.
"His quiet generosity, her warmth and kindness, and their daughter's bright, joyful spirit made a lasting impact on everyone who knew them.
"She was a ray of sunshine in her school and they were a pillar of strength in our lives."
The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this "incredibly painful period," thanking the community for their support and solidarity.
Mr Nanabawa was a former pupil of Caerleon Comprehensive School and the University of South Wales before moving to Gloucester with his family.
Friends and family have paid tribute to him on Facebook, describing him as "one of a kind" and a "devastating loss."
The family have asked the media and public not to contact them at this time, and have said that any verified updates will be shared through the appropriate channels.