Esha Gupta Safely Returns to India After Tense Ordeal in Abu Dhabi
Bollywood actress Esha Gupta has safely returned to India, landing in Delhi on March 2 after being stranded in Abu Dhabi since February 28. In a recent social media post, she confirmed her return, expressing gratitude for fans' concern and prayers during the challenging situation.
Escalating Middle East Tensions Lead to Airport Chaos
Describing the ordeal as incredibly difficult due to rising tensions in the Middle East, Gupta shared an emotional note on Instagram. “Back home. Thank you all for your prayers and wishes. It was very tough to be in the situation that we all were. Truly gods blessing to safe!” she wrote, highlighting the stress of the past few days.
Gupta recounted the chaotic events that began on February 28 when she was at the airport. “By 1pm the airport was closed, chaos all around as none of us knew what happened. Then the news started coming of the missile attack and no one knew what the next minute held for us,” she explained. She noted how strangers consoled each other and called their families, emphasizing the uncertainty everyone faced.
Praise for UAE's Swift Response and Support
Despite the turmoil, Gupta commended the strength and efficiency of the United Arab Emirates. “What I saw was strength of a country which is UAE. The ground staff and airport security immediately lunged to action and stayed calm throughout,” she stated, appreciating their composure under pressure.
She detailed the support provided to stranded passengers:
- Cash vouchers were distributed for meals while waiting for luggage and authorities to sort things out.
- Accommodation was arranged at available hotels in Abu Dhabi, with buses ready by 9pm for transfers.
- The UAE government ordered hotels to provide stay and food, ensuring families or friends stayed together.
- Notifications and alerts from the UAE Ministry of Interior kept passengers informed and reassured.
Hotel Staff and Airline Assistance Highlighted
Gupta praised the hotel staff and management for working tirelessly and patiently amid the circumstances. “Not once did we see the people, all scared internally but no one created stress, we all were in this together,” she wrote, highlighting the collective resilience.
She also acknowledged Etihad Airways for their help, noting that they sent messages for rebooking or refunds. “The ground staff on calls of the said airline were the most helpful and again, very calm,” Gupta added. She mentioned being lucky enough to board the first commercial flight to Delhi, thanks to arriving early at the airport.
Gratitude to Governments and Final Thoughts
Even with the airport only partially functional, staff maintained their cool and aided travelers in every possible way. Gupta lauded the UAE authorities for their robust leadership and rapid response. “All this shows just the backbone of a country and its strength, they took action when needed, no blaming anyone, just strong decisions,” she emphasized.
She extended her thanks to both governments, writing, “Thank you for our government for providing its citizens with reassurance and working towards getting us all back. Thank you to uae government in working in solidarity with every country for the citizens of the world! Radhe Radhe.” This heartfelt message underscores the collaborative efforts that ensured her safe return home.
