الوسم: tribute

  • Families Seek Answers One Year After Air India Crash

    Families Seek Answers One Year After Air India Crash

    Families of the victims from last year’s Air India flight crash gathered at the site on Friday to observe the anniversary, still waiting for clarity on what caused the tragedy.

    On June 12, 2025, a Boeing 787 collided with a medical college shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad in western India, resulting in 260 deaths — making it the deadliest aviation accident in a decade.

    Indian officials are expected to release an interim report soon, but relatives of the victims are frustrated, awaiting a comprehensive final explanation.

    Suresh Patni, a driver, visited the crash site where his teenage son Akash was engulfed in flames. “We’re here today only to remember him on his first death anniversary,” Patni shared with AFP.

    “Akash was a bright student and had so much potential,” he added, commemorating his son with a framed photo, a life-sized cutout, flowers, scattered rose petals, and lit lamps.

    The crash resulted in the deaths of 241 passengers on the plane and 19 individuals on the ground. Debris like bags, clothes, and a melted shoe remain partially buried in the scorched earth, with charred trees around.

    “Knowing an airplane is flying overhead still hurts us,” Patni said, noting that their home is near Ahmedabad’s airport flight path in Gujarat.

    Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, paid homage at the crash site during the first anniversary. “Our house remains in the same spot, but we prefer not to stay here. The faces and memories haunt us,” she remarked.

    Nearby, a woman wept as she held a framed photo of her late relatives, while another family scattered rose petals amidst the ruins of the hostel in memory of their son.

    Relatives expected a conclusive report by Friday explaining the mishap. However, with investigations ongoing, only an interim report from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is anticipated.

    A preliminary report, issued a month after the crash, indicated that fuel supply to the engines was cut just before impact — raising suspicions of pilot error. It included a brief transcript of the captain and co-pilot discussing the fuel issue, which led to theories of pilot suicide.

    Criticism of the report was swift. It failed to clarify why the fuel switches were turned off, leaving unresolved whether it was a pilot’s mistake or a malfunction.

    Victims’ families are convening in Ahmedabad for a lawyer-organized conference with aviation safety experts and plan to hold a candlelight vigil after sunset.

    Nilesh Joshi, who traveled from London after attending an Indian wedding, spoke about the importance of the final report for closure. His wife, Kaminiben Nilesh Joshi, was killed in the crash. “It’s taking so long for authorities to assess what happened,” he said. “For those of us who lost loved ones, knowing the reason is crucial.”

    Only one passenger survived: British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, who bears significant psychological scars and persistent questions about the incident, including why it happened.

    Vijay Sengal, a sanitation inspector at a nearby hospital, vividly recalls the plane’s crash, describing the deafening noise. He was among the first responders to assist injured victims.

    “It was heartbreaking. When we tried to recover bodies, they wouldn’t come out. Instead, we’d find a hand or a foot,” Sengal explained. Now, many avoid the area after dark, fearing haunted spirits. “We believe in gods and spirits. Perhaps those passengers still have unresolved issues or unfulfilled last wishes,” he said.

  • Funeral of Hali Rahbani, Fairouz’s Son, Date Announced

    Funeral of Hali Rahbani, Fairouz’s Son, Date Announced

    Digital Phablet – Hali Rahbani, the youngest son of Lebanese singer Fairouz and the late composer Assi Rahbani, passed away on Thursday at the age of 68, according to reports from local media in Lebanon.

    He had struggled for many years with both physical and cognitive disabilities since his birth in 1958. Unlike his artistic family, Hali kept a low profile and lived away from the public eye, primarily under the care of his cherished mother, who devoted her life to ensuring his well-being.

    A photograph showing Hali with his mother and brother Ziad went viral after being shared in 2022 by Rima Rahbani. The image captured Hali in a wheelchair inside a church in Lebanon. The news of his death comes roughly six months after the passing of his brother, Ziad Rahbani, in July 2025, which was a significant blow to the family. Fairouz made her first public appearance in years at Ziad’s funeral.

    The funeral arrangements for Hali have not yet been announced, but updates are expected soon. Notably, Ziad Rahbani’s funeral took place two days after his death. Ziad, a renowned Lebanese composer and singer, died early on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 69 due to liver cirrhosis. His funeral service was held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church in Al-Muhayditha—Bikfaya, Lebanon, with a large crowd of fans and prominent cultural figures in attendance, including Fairouz, who bade her final farewell to her son.

    The passing of Hali Rahbani marks another sorrowful chapter for the family, emphasizing the deep connection and resilience shared among them.

  • Mohamed Ramadan Announces Father’s Death and Shares Emotional Tribute

    Mohamed Ramadan Announces Father’s Death and Shares Emotional Tribute

    Digital Phablet – On Friday, artist Mohamed Ramadan announced on his official Facebook page that his father had passed away, sharing details about the funeral arrangements and burial location.

    In his statement, Ramadan expressed, “Today, after dawn on Friday, November 7, 2025, my beloved father departed to the eternal resting place.” May God grant him mercy and admit him to paradise, along with all your loved ones who have gone before us. Truly, we belong to God and will return to Him (1948–2025).

    He also posted a follow-up message saying, “Yes, we belong to God, and to Him we shall return.” My dear father has passed. After the Friday prayer at Mustafa Mahmoud Mosque in Mohandessin, there will be a funeral prayer, and the body will be laid to rest in the 6th of October graves. May God place him in His vast paradise.

    In a related Instagram post, Ramadan shared a heartfelt message and a photo commemorating his father. He reflected on his father’s upbringing and virtues, mentioning that his father had memorized the entire Quran and was known as “the kindest heart in the world.” “My father meant everything to me,” he said. “We are alive because of his blessings. Friends couldn’t even come visit us because of him. He went to bed early, woke up early for the night prayer (Qiyam al-Layl), and would then read the newspaper and the Quran by heart, thanks to his memorization.”

    During a television interview, Ramadan spoke openly about his father, emphasizing his deep admiration and love. He described his father as a man who had memorized the entire Quran and called him “the kindest person in the world.” “My father is my everything,” he shared. “He blessed us with his prayers, and his goal was always to see us happy and better.” He recounted that his father’s biggest dream was to perform Hajj, which he accomplished, and after that, his children were his greatest concern. Ramadan expressed immense gratitude for having parents whose only aim was to have him live a blessed life.

    As a side note, Mohamed Ramadan’s recent work includes the TV series “Jaafar Al-Omda,” which aired during the last Ramadan season. He is also eagerly awaiting the release of his upcoming film, “Asad.”

  • Omar Abdullah Climbs Wall to Honor Martyrs Amid Restrictions

    Omar Abdullah Climbs Wall to Honor Martyrs Amid Restrictions

    Omar Abdullah Pays Tribute at Martyrs’ Graveyard in Srinagar

    On July 14, 2025, Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), was compelled to climb over the wall of the Mazar-e-Shuhada in Srinagar to honor the martyrs of July 13, 1931.

    This tragic day marks the anniversary when approximately 22 Kashmiris were killed by the forces of the Dogra Maharaja as they gathered outside the Central Jail in Srinagar to show their support for Abdul Qadeer. He had been accused of inciting rebellion against the Dogra regime.

    In an effort to prevent political leaders from visiting the graveyard on this significant anniversary, Indian forces sealed off the area and enforced strict movement restrictions.

    Abdullah took to social media platform X to share his experience: “I paid my respects and offered Fatiha at the graves of the martyrs from July 13, 1931. The unelected government attempted to block my access, forcing me to walk from Nawhatta Chowk and even scale a wall to reach the shrine after they locked the gate.”

    Speaking to reporters afterward, he revealed that security personnel had set up a bunker near his home to obstruct his visit, stating, “I didn’t notify anyone about my plans. I drove here on my own without alerting anyone.”

    Visuals from the scene captured senior National Conference leader Sakina Itoo arriving at the site on a scooter.

  • Beloved Moroccan Journalist Kaoutar Boudarraja Dies at 37

    Beloved Moroccan Journalist Kaoutar Boudarraja Dies at 37

    DIGITAL PHABLET – The Moroccan media community mourns the loss of Kaoutar Boudarraja at the age of 37.

    On June 27, social media was filled with sorrowful messages following the passing of Moroccan journalist Kaoutar Boudarraja, who succumbed to a lengthy illness at the age of 37.

    Numerous celebrities took to their platforms to share their grief over her untimely death.

    Mimi Al-Abyad paid tribute on Boudarraja’s Instagram by stating, “Indeed, we are from God, and indeed, we shall return.” She expressed her heartfelt sentiments for her dear friend, wishing for divine mercy to embrace her.

    Kaoutar Boudarraja Instagram profile

    Adel Eshbi also shared his condolences via his Instagram story, reiterating, “Indeed, we are from God, and indeed, we shall return,” reflecting on her memory. He added, “May God protect you, Kaoutar.”

    Musician Nouamane Belaiachi announced a delay in the release of his song “Jillali” to Monday in her honor. He wrote on Instagram, “Peace to you all! In light of Kaoutar Boudarraja’s passing, we’ve postponed the release of the song ‘Jillali’ to Monday. We belong to God, and we will return to Him. May God grant her mercy and forgive her.


    Abdelfattah Al-Jerini mirrored the sentiments with a comment on her post, "Indeed, we are from God, and indeed, we shall return. May God grant her mercy and shelter all who have passed."

    Kaoutar Boudarraja Instagram profile

    Jamila Al-Badawi expressed her condolences as well, stating, "We belong to God, and to Him we shall return. May God show her kindness and grant her peace."

    Boudarraja began her media career at a young age, gaining recognition for hosting various cultural and artistic programs on Moroccan television, where her calm and composed presence set her apart.

    After her start on the "Star Academy Maghreb," she became a prominent figure on Nessma TV, hosting notable shows like "Nass Nessma" and "Forbidden for Men." She later joined Medi 1 TV and hosted "Jari Ya Jari," and made appearances on the "Arab Presenter" aired on Al Hayat TV and Abu Dhabi TV.

    Alongside her media endeavors, Kaoutar Boudarraja also pursued acting, featuring in dramas such as "Al-Madi La Yamoot," "Solo Domoui," "Ahlam Banat," and "Salamat Abu Al-Banat." She was also part of the Moroccan fantasy film "Atoman," released in 2025.

  • World Leaders Honor Pope Francis Following His Passing

    World Leaders Honor Pope Francis Following His Passing

    Pope Francis greets the audience from the balcony while delivering his Christmas Urbi et Orbi blessing in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican on December 25, 2022. — AFP

    Pope Francis, who made history as the first leader from Latin America to head the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away, as announced by the Vatican in a video statement on Monday. He was 88 years old and had been battling a severe case of double pneumonia recently.

    As the worldwide Christian community mourns, tributes are pouring in from global leaders honoring the late pontiff.

    U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who had just met with the pope during a recent trip to Italy, expressed his condolences for Christians around the world. “I was deeply saddened to hear about Pope Francis’ passing. My thoughts are with the countless Christians globally who held him dear. It was a joy to see him yesterday (Sunday), despite his evident illness. I’ll always cherish his beautiful homily from the early days of COVID,” he stated.

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her sorrow over the loss of “a remarkable man and a guiding shepherd.” She remarked, “I was fortunate to have his friendship and to receive his guidance and teachings, which never ceased even in times of hardship.”

    French President Emmanuel Macron paid his respects, saying, “Throughout his time as pope, Francis consistently stood by the most vulnerable and fragile among us, demonstrating great humility. In these times of conflict and brutality, he showed a deep empathy for others.”

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also remembered the late pope, noting that “Pope Francis will forever be recognized as a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage to millions around the globe.” He added, “He dedicated himself to supporting the poor and the marginalized, inspiring hope in those who suffered. I fondly recall my discussions with him and was profoundly moved by his dedication to inclusive development. His affection for the people of India will be fondly remembered. May his soul rest in peace within God’s embrace.”

    German Chancellor-in-Waiting Friedrich Merz emphasized Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to the most disadvantaged members of society. He remarked on X, “He was guided by humility and had faith in God’s mercy.”

    Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, expressed his deep shock over the news of Pope Francis’s passing. He requested that “the bells of our churches be rung and our communities called to prayer for the eternal rest of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who passed away just minutes ago.”