Patna: As the nation grapples with the devastating loss of 241 lives in the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, Patna is mourning one of its own — Manisha Thapa, a young and promising air hostess whose dreams were cut tragically short.
Manisha, who lived with her family near Shyama Apartment in Patna’s Jagdev Path area, was on board the ill-fated AI 171 flight that crashed during takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon. She was part of the cabin crew.
Originally from Biratnagar, Nepal, Manisha grew up and studied in Patna. Her father, Raju Thapa, serves in the Bihar Police and is currently posted in Begusarai. Her mother, Lakshmi Thapa, is a homemaker, while her brother, Amit Thapa, is still a student. Following the heartbreaking news, the Thapa family has left for Ahmedabad.
A Star in the Making
Manisha was a graduate of St. Xavier’s College in Digha, Patna. Her journey into aviation began with a position at IndiGo, and she later joined Air India as a cabin crew member. Neighbours remember her as a “bright, soft-spoken, and deeply dedicated girl” who worked tirelessly to fulfil her ambitions.
“She was the pride of our neighbourhood,” said one resident. “Always polite, always smiling. It’s hard to believe we won’t see her again.”
Manisha’s friend Subhash recalled her warmth and commitment: “She was a very hardworking and talented student. Her honesty and professionalism were inspirational. Even when she was angry, her face always carried that same calm and sweet smile. It’s shocking to believe she’s no longer with us.”
Her college will hold a condolence meeting at 8am on Sunday to honour her memory.
Remembering ‘That Smile’
News of the crash has sent shockwaves through Manisha’s neighbourhood. Friends and classmates gathered quietly outside her home on Thursday evening, many unable to hold back tears. “That smile of Manisha — that’s what everyone remembers,” said a former classmate. “She had such a gentle presence.”
In her short but impactful life, Manisha symbolised aspiration — a girl from Patna reaching for the skies, quite literally, and making her way into the world of aviation through sheer determination.
Bihar Issues Helpline
In response to the national tragedy, the Disaster Management Department of Bihar has issued a press release confirming the crash and requesting information from citizens whose family members might have been affected.
According to the statement, the Air India flight AI 171, bound for London from Ahmedabad, crashed in the Meghani Nagar area near the airport during takeoff, hitting a residential building. The helpline numbers 0612-2294204, 0612-2294205, and toll-free number 1070 have been activated for citizens seeking assistance or information.
As rescue operations continue and families begin the grim journey of mourning, Patna will remember Manisha not just as a casualty, but as a symbol of young ambition, quiet strength, and a smile that now lives on in memory.
