Anoushka Shankar Slams Air India for Damaged Sitar

Sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar has expressed profound disappointment and anger towards Air India, detailing how her instrument was significantly damaged during a recent flight. Shankar, who had opted to travel with the airline after a hiatus, discovered the mishandled sitar upon arrival, leading her to voice her concerns prominently on social media.

The musician described the damage as extensive and lamented the lack of care, emphasizing the sitar's importance as both a performance tool and a cherished personal possession. Her public outcry has reignited discussions about airline policies and the proper training for staff handling fragile and valuable items, particularly musical instruments.

This event brings renewed attention to the challenges faced by musicians who depend on air travel for their livelihoods and instruments. The incident intensifies ongoing calls for airlines to implement more rigorous protocols and specialized training to ensure the safety of sensitive cargo and prevent future occurrences.