Flute Maestro Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia Stranded at Airport for 11 Hours After IndiGo Cancels Flights Without Notice

Renowned flautist Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia faced a harrowing ordeal on Friday when IndiGo abruptly cancelled multiple flights without prior notice, leaving him stranded at Delhi Airport for 11 long hours. Chaurasia, who was scheduled to perform at the inauguration of the Hriday Drishyam Festival in Bhopal, missed his much-awaited recital due to the chaos.

Stranded From Morning Till Evening

Pandit Chaurasia left his Delhi residence at 5 AM, optimistic about reaching Bhopal in time for his performance. He arrived at the airport before 7 AM, checked in his flute and luggage, and waited for boarding instructions—unaware that the situation would soon spiral into confusion.

By 6 PM, after hours of waiting and repeated delays, he finally retrieved his luggage, ending an exhausting 11-hour wait.

“I was committed to performing in Bhopal and waited till the last minute,”
said the maestro, expressing his disappointment.
“Had I been informed even a day earlier, I could have travelled by road or train.”

₹58,000 Ticket Gone in Seconds

In a desperate attempt to make it to the event, Chaurasia tried booking another afternoon flight—priced at a staggering ₹58,000. He was ready to pay, but the ticket sold out within moments.

With his luggage already checked in, he had no option but to remain at the airport until it was returned to him.

Chaos and Distress at the Terminal

The indecision and lack of communication from the airline left passengers frustrated and helpless. According to Chaurasia, the terminal witnessed emotional and chaotic scenes:

• A groom waiting for a cancelled flight to Jaipur as his bride waited at the wedding venue
• Passengers weeping due to missing last rites of loved ones
• Hundreds shouting at young IndiGo staffers, who themselves had no information about the cancellations

“I’ve travelled the world. Even in bad weather, airlines inform passengers. Why was no real reason shared today?”
Chaurasia questioned the airline’s handling of the crisis.

Determined to Perform for Bhopal

Despite the distressing experience, the celebrated flautist remains resolute. He has decided to fly to Bhopal on Sunday and perform at Bharat Bhavan to make up for the missed show.