Anoushka Shankar’s Sitar Damaged in Transit, Airline Called Out

New Delhi, December 4, 2025: Acclaimed sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar has publicly criticized Air India after her precious musical instrument was severely damaged during a recent flight, sparking a significant viral reaction. The sitarist, daughter of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, expressed her profound disappointment and distress, stating that she was “devastated and truly disturbed” by the airline’s handling, despite the instrument being carried in a protective case and a special handling fee having been paid.

Damage Discovered Post-Flight

The issue was first discovered when the sitar was found to be severely out of tune after the flight. Further inspection revealed visible, large cracks on the instrument’s toomba (gourd-shaped base), which indicated a severe impact or extreme mishandling during transit. A video was posted by the musician on Instagram, showcasing the extent of the damage and detailing her shock.

The musician confirmed that this was her first time flying Air India in a long period and noted that for 15 or 17 years, her instrument had been transported across “thousands of flights on other airlines without even a peg going out of tune.” This contrast was used to underscore the alleged negligence of the airline.

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Cultural and Emotional Loss Is Felt

Shankar’s criticism was deeply rooted not only in the financial cost of the damage but also in the profound cultural and emotional significance of the sitar. The instrument was repeatedly described as a deeply personal possession and an embodiment of India’s classical music heritage. She publicly questioned how an Indian instrument could seemingly not be safe with the country’s own flagship carrier.

The sitarist’s statement, which included the question, “How on earth does damage like this happen without willful disregard?”, resonated strongly across the artistic community. Fellow musicians and artists immediately provided an outpouring of support, expressing heartbreak over the instrument’s condition and demanding accountability from the airline.

Wider Debate on Fragile Luggage

The viral incident has reignited a long-standing debate concerning the inadequate policies and training provided by airlines for handling fragile and non-standard musical instruments. Despite the payment of additional handling fees, musicians frequently face the risk of career-altering damage to their tools.

As of the video’s rapid ascent to viral status, Air India had not yet issued a detailed public statement addressing the incident or clarifying the procedures that were followed during the sitar’s transportation. The silence from the airline has further fueled frustration among passengers and artists demanding improved baggage protocols.