Grief Upon Grief: A Mother’s Heartbreak After Kedarnath Helicopter Crash Claims Her Pilot Son

In the quiet lanes of Jaipur’s Shastri Nagar, a family’s world was shattered not once, but twice, within the span of just two weeks. The tragic story of pilot Rajveer Singh Chauhan, who lost his life in the Kedarnath helicopter crash on June 15, 2025, has taken an even more heartbreaking turn. On the thirteenth day ritual (terahvin) of Rajveer’s passing—a day meant to mark closure and prayers for the departed—his mother, Vijay Laxmi Chauhan, succumbed to her own grief and passed away.

This is not just a tale of loss; it is a testament to the unbreakable bond between a mother and her son, and the overwhelming weight of sorrow that sometimes becomes too much to bear.

The Fateful Day: A Crash That Stunned the Nation

On June 15, 2025, news broke of a devastating helicopter crash near Kedarnath, claiming the lives of seven people. Among them was Rajveer Singh Chauhan, a skilled pilot and a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Indian Army. Rajveer’s life had been one of service and courage, both in uniform and beyond. His untimely demise sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the entire community.

The last rites of Rajveer were a moment of collective mourning. The viral video of his wife, Lieutenant Colonel Deepika Chauhan, dressed in her Army uniform, bidding a tearful farewell to her husband, touched the hearts of millions. She was seen embracing her husband’s mortal remains, her grief raw and unfiltered, a symbol of love and loss that resonated far beyond the boundaries of their home.

A Mother’s Unbearable Loss

For Vijay Laxmi Chauhan, Rajveer was not just a son—he was her pride, her support, and her world. The sudden loss left her devastated, struggling to come to terms with a reality she could not accept. Those close to the family recall how she would often break down, unable to hold back her tears, her heart heavy with sorrow.

The pain of losing a child is unimaginable, and for Vijay Laxmi, the grief seemed insurmountable. Yet, as per tradition, she took it upon herself to organize and perform the final rituals for her beloved son. On the morning of the thirteenth day, she woke up early to prepare food with her own hands for the Brahmin bhoj—a ritual meal offered in memory of the departed. Despite her broken spirit, she fulfilled her duties as a mother, honoring her son’s memory with every gesture.

The Final Goodbye

As relatives arrived from Bikaner and other places to pay their respects, emotions ran high. The house was filled with the sound of weeping, the air thick with the weight of loss. Vijay Laxmi, already fragile, became overwhelmed by the outpouring of grief. She began to sob uncontrollably, her cries echoing the pain of a mother who had lost her child too soon.

Suddenly, she clutched her chest in agony. Family members rushed her to the hospital, desperate to save her. But fate had other plans. Doctors pronounced her dead upon arrival. The news sent another wave of shock and mourning through the family and community. It was as if her heart, broken by the loss of her son, could bear no more.

A Community in Mourning

The double tragedy left the Chauhan family and their neighbors reeling. Rajveer’s friend, Suraj, shared that the family had been inconsolable since the pilot’s death. “It was like a storm had swept through their lives. Vijay Laxmi aunty was deeply attached to Rajveer. She tried to stay strong for the rituals, but her heart just couldn’t take it.”

Neighbors and friends gathered at the Chandpol cremation ground that evening to bid farewell to Vijay Laxmi. The scene was one of profound sorrow, as the community tried to come to terms with the enormity of what had transpired. The loss of both mother and son in such quick succession was a tragedy that words could scarcely describe.

The Last Rituals: A Family’s Final Salute

At Rajveer’s funeral, his wife Deepika, herself a Lieutenant Colonel, stood by his body in uniform, her composure wavering as she caressed his face for the last time. The sight moved everyone present to tears. Rajveer’s nephew, Vishu, performed the final rites, lighting the pyre as the family said their goodbyes.

It was Vijay Laxmi who had led the chants of “Rajveer Amar Rahe” (Long live Rajveer) at her son’s funeral, her voice trembling with emotion as she touched his photograph. She had been the pillar of strength for her family, even in her own grief. But now, she too was gone, leaving behind a void that could never be filled.

The Legacy of Rajveer Singh Chauhan

Rajveer’s life was one of honor and service. After retiring from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, he continued to serve the nation as a civilian pilot. His wife Deepika continues to serve in the Army, embodying the spirit of resilience and duty that defined their family.

The loss of Rajveer in the Kedarnath helicopter crash was a blow not just to his family, but to the entire community of servicemen and women who knew him. His dedication, bravery, and kindness are remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Mother’s Love, Eternal and Unbroken

The story of Vijay Laxmi Chauhan is a poignant reminder of the depth of a mother’s love. Her heart, already shattered by the loss of her son, could not withstand the weight of her grief. In her final moments, surrounded by family and memories, she joined her son in eternity—a testament to the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child.

Reflections on Grief and Resilience

This tragedy has left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it. It is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring pain of loss. Yet, even in the depths of sorrow, there is a message of hope and resilience. The Chauhan family, despite their unimaginable pain, has shown strength in honoring the memories of those they have lost.

As the community mourns, they also celebrate the lives of Rajveer and Vijay Laxmi—a son who lived with courage, and a mother whose love knew no bounds. Their story will be remembered, not just for the tragedy that befell them, but for the love and strength they embodied.

In the end, the Chauhan family’s loss is a reminder to cherish our loved ones, to honor their memories, and to find strength in the bonds that connect us—even in the face of unbearable grief.