In the aftermath of the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash on June 12, which killed over 200 people in Ahmedabad, a wave of confusion spread online over Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey’s connection to one of the crew members aboard.
The Confusion
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After the accident, sexual Massey shared an emotional tribute on his Instagram Story, mentioning that “my uncle Clifford Kunder lost his son, Clive Kunder”, who was first officer on the ill-fated flight newindianexpress.com+5newindianexpress.com+5timesofindia.indiatimes.com+5economictimes.indiatimes.com+15indiatoday.in+15people.com+15.
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Several outlets mistakenly reported Clive as Massey’s cousin, citing Vikrant’s mention of his “uncle” ndtv.com+2m.economictimes.com+2indiatimes.com+2.
The Clarification
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On June 13, Massey posted a follow-up story stating:
“Dear friends in the media and elsewhere, the unfortunately deceased Mr. Clive Kunder was not my cousin. The Kunders are our family friends. Request no more speculation and let the family and loved ones grieve in peace.”
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Leading outlets like NDTV, Times of India, Moneycontrol, and Economic Times echoed this, confirming the misunderstanding indiatimes.com+8moneycontrol.com+8m.economictimes.com+8.
What We Know
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Flight | Air India Flight AI171, Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner |
| Crash | Shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, en route to London, June 12 |
| Crew | Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder |
| Connection | Clive is the son of the Kunder family—a close family friend, not related by blood |
Why It Matters
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The initial social media message was heartfelt and unintentional in its wording.
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Massey’s correction underlines the importance of respect during tragedy and combating misinformation.
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He also appealed to the press and public to allow the Kunder family the space to grieve newindianexpress.com+10moneycontrol.com+10people.com+10timesofindia.indiatimes.com+3m.economictimes.com+3indiatoday.in+3.
In Summary
Vikrant Massey’s relationship with Clive Kunder stemmed from a close, multi-generational friendship between the families. He has emphasized that Clive was not his cousin, and has urged accurate reporting and sensitivity for the grieving family.