An Indian family’s European holiday ended in tragedy on Thursday when a road accident in Italy claimed the lives of a Nagpur-based businessman and his wife, TOI reported. The victims have been identified as Javed Akhtar, 55 and his wife Nadira Gulshan, 47. The Indian Embassy in Italy confirmed the deaths and said it is in touch with the family and local authorities.
Indian embassy responds
The Indian Embassy in Italy expressed condolences and assured full support for the family. In a statement on X, the embassy said: “The Embassy conveys its heartfelt and sincere condolences for the tragic loss of two Indian nationals from Nagpur in an accident near Grosseto. Our prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured family members who are undergoing treatment. The Embassy is in contact with the family and local Italian authorities. We are providing all assistance to the family.”
Reports say a broken-down van being pushed on the roadside was hit by a truck, which then collided with the Akhtars’ minibus. Javed, Nadira, and the minibus driver died on the spot, while the vehicle was completely wrecked.
Who was Javed Akhtar?
Akhtar was a well-known entrepreneur and the owner of Gulshan Plaza Hotel near Sitabuldi flyover in Nagpur. He and his wife were travelling with their three children, daughters Arzoo Akhtar, 21, and Shifa Akhtar, and son Jazel Akhtar, when the accident occurred on the Aurelia Highway near Grosseto.
The family landed in France on September 22 and was heading to a sightseeing stop in a nine-seater minibus in Italy when the collision happened. Their daughter, Arzoo, suffered severe head injuries and is currently in critical condition at Lee Scott Hospital in Siena. Shifa and Jazel are recovering at hospitals in Florence and Grosseto. After regaining consciousness, Jazel called the local helpline to seek help. Rescue teams, including fire department personnel and helicopters, were deployed to bring the injured to hospitals.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis coordinated with the Indian Embassy in Rome to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased and ensure proper care for the injured. Nagpur DC Vipin Itankar also contacted the embassy to assist with legal formalities and support the surviving family members.