Nagpur Hotelier Javed Akhtar Wife Die in Tragic Italy Road Crash

An Indian family's European holiday turned tragic on Thursday when Nagpur-based hotelier Javed Akhtar and his wife Nadira Gulshan lost their lives in a road accident on the Aurelia Highway near Grosseto, Italy. The Indian Embassy in Italy confirmed the deaths and said it is coordinating with the family and local authorities.

Who Was Javed Akhtar?

Javed Akhtar, 55, was a renowned entrepreneur and owner of Gulshan Plaza Hotel near Sitabuldi flyover in Nagpur, Maharashtra. His wife, Nadira Gulshan, 47, was travelling with their three children: Arzoo Akhtar (21), Shifa Akhtar, and Jazel Akhtar.

The family had begun their European holiday in France on September 22 before heading to Italy. They were en route to a sightseeing stop in a nine-seater minibus when the accident occurred.

Details of the Accident

Local reports indicate the collision involved a van and the minibus carrying tourists of Asian origin. The crash reportedly happened after a truck rammed into a broken-down van, leading to a chain reaction.

Javed Akhtar, his wife, and the minibus driver died on the spot. Their daughter, Arzoo, sustained severe head injuries and is currently critical at Lee Scott Hospital in Siena, while Shifa and Jazel are recovering in hospitals in Florence and Grosseto.

According to reports, Jazel dialled local emergency services after regaining consciousness. Rescue teams, including two fire department units and medical helicopters, retrieved the injured from the wrecked vehicles. Reports suggest that help may have arrived late.

Indian Embassy Response

The Indian Embassy in Italy expressed condolences and confirmed assistance to the family. In a statement posted on X, the embassy said:

"The Embassy conveys its heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of two Indian nationals from Nagpur in an accident near Grosseto. Our prayers are 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."