Tejas crash victim Wing Commander Namansh Syal cremated with full military honours

For the locals, Namansh was an outstanding athlete distinguished by his dedication to the country, “who even set an example in death by diverting the aircraft to save thousands present at the mega air show”.

Hundreds of people lined up en route while patriotic slogans and rallying cries, such as ‘Jab Tak Suraj Chaand Rahega, Nammu Tera Naam Rahega’, rent the air. “Namansh’s death is a big loss to the country and me,” said Jagan Nath Syal, the father of the deceased pilot, adding that his son was considered the best student by his trainers. Madan Lal, Namansh’s uncle, said, “He was a very down to earth person. Villagers have lined up in huge numbers here only to have a final glimpse of him. He was so honest and straightforward that he was loved by all. This is a great loss for the country.”

Munish Sharma, Sub Divisonal Magistrate of Nagrota-Bagwan, said, “Around a thousands people attended the cremation Sunday. State government made all arrangements for the funeral.”

Satish Thakur, a resident of Patialkad who, along with his son, reached Gaggal Airport, said, “Namansh was known by his nickname ‘Nammu’ across the village and among his friends. He had visited the village four months ago.”

Another resident Sandeep Kumar said, “Everyone in Patialkad is grieving. He was like a younger brother to us. This should not have happened. We met him just 3–4 months ago when he visited the village.”

Pankaj Chadha, his schoolmate from Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, said, “We have lost a gem. He was the pride of our school. He made us all very proud.” Wing Commander Syal had joined the defence forces after clearing the NDA exam in 2009. He met his wife during their first posting in Pathankot, and later got married in 2014.