Tributes paid to ‘gifted’ University of Exeter law student who died in Air India crash

Tributes have been paid to a “gifted” University of Exeter student who died in the recent Air India crash.

21-year-old Deepanshi Bhadouriya was studying law at the time of her death, and had extended her stay in her home country to celebrate her parent’s anniversary.

After originally scheduling her return to London for 20th May, she extended her stay until 12th June to spend more time with her loved ones.

On the previous evening, the family gathered to celebrate a day full of joy and love. “She wanted to celebrate the day with her father and mother Madhulika,” said a family friend of Deepanshi.

The daughter of Deputy Superintendent of Police S S Bhadouriya, Deepanshi had flown home on 27th March to surprise her father on his birthday.

Speaking with a heavy heart, a close family friend added: “She was the pride of her family, especially her younger brother Shaurya.”

She had lovingly promised her father, that she’ll take care of him, saying he can leave his job.

Deepanshi was a gifted student, representing her college in six countries. The University of Exeter also sponsored her to go skydiving in Dubai at the age of 20.

Deepanshi took a final selfie with her parents at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport before boarding Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Minutes after take-off, the aircraft carrying 242 passengers tragically crashed into the Atulyam residential complex in Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad.

The heartbreaking disaster has left communities devastated as they mourn the loss of many lives.

“This is a loss beyond words,” said a friend of Deepanshi. Her family and friends remember her as a “bold, cheerful girl who was her father’s strength and her brother Shaurya’s pride.”

Featured image via University of Exeter