Jodhpur Devotees Stranded in Dubai Following Flight Cancellations Amid Regional Conflict
Approximately 120 devotees from Jodhpur, Rajasthan, find themselves stranded in Dubai after their return flights were abruptly cancelled due to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. The group had traveled to the United Arab Emirates to attend a religious discourse by Sant Amritram Maharaj at the Bada Ramdwara in Soorsagar.
Travel Plans Disrupted by Geopolitical Tensions
According to information provided by family members, the devotees departed for Dubai on February 23 to participate in the religious event scheduled from February 24 to February 28. The discourse concluded successfully on Saturday, after which the group proceeded to the airport for their scheduled return journey to India.
At the airport, they received the distressing news that their flights had been cancelled indefinitely due to the volatile security situation in the region. Airport authorities directed all stranded passengers to return to their hotels, where they are currently staying temporarily while awaiting resolution.
Safety Concerns and Resource Shortages
Sant Amritram Maharaj has confirmed through a video message that all members of the group are currently safe. He has urgently appealed to the Indian government to facilitate their safe travel back to Jodhpur. Among the 120 stranded individuals, nearly 100 belong to the Mali community from the Mandore and Soorsagar areas of Jodhpur.
Reports of ongoing missile attacks and heightened military activity in the Gulf region have significantly increased anxiety among the stranded passengers. Their families back in Jodhpur remain deeply concerned about their safety and wellbeing.
Families Appeal for Government Intervention
Garvesh Kachhawaha, whose six family members are among those stranded, expressed grave concern about the situation. "We are in constant contact with them and are extremely worried about their safety. We earnestly hope the Indian government will intervene promptly to help them return home safely," he stated.
The stranded devotees have collectively appealed to the Central government for immediate assistance and safe evacuation. Community members in Jodhpur have extended support, noting that the travelers' resources are rapidly depleting since they had planned only for the duration of the religious event.
Financial Strain and Extended Stay Challenges
"This unexpected emergency has left them stranded without adequate provisions," explained Kachhawaha. "They traveled with limited funds intended only for their planned stay duration. Now they are facing serious shortages of money and other essential resources to sustain themselves during this extended, unplanned stay in Dubai."
The situation highlights the broader impact of geopolitical conflicts on civilian travel and the urgent need for coordinated international response mechanisms to assist stranded citizens during regional crises.
