Two Indian nationals missing after speedboat capsizes in Maldives; Gautam Singhania rescued
A speedboat carrying seven people, including Raymond Group Chairman Gautam Singhania, capsized near Felidhoo island in the Maldives early on Friday, March 20, 2026. While Singhania was rescued with minor injuries, two Indian nationals remain missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, led by the Maldives National Defence Force.
Key Highlights
- Speedboat carrying seven people capsized near Felidhoo, Maldives.
- Raymond Group Chairman Gautam Singhania was among those rescued.
- Two Indian nationals are currently missing and being searched for.
- Maldives National Defence Force is conducting search operations.
- The incident occurred early Friday morning, March 20, 2026.
A tragic incident occurred in the Maldives in the early hours of Friday, March 20, 2026, when a speedboat carrying seven individuals capsized near Felidhoo island in the Vaavu Atoll. Among the passengers was Gautam Hari Singhania, the Chairman and Managing Director of the prominent Indian conglomerate, the Raymond Group. According to local media reports, the vessel was carrying five Indian men, a British national, and a Russian national. The speedboat, which reportedly belonged to Singhania's yacht, TT Ashena, was designed for high-speed travel..
When the speedboat overturned, five people were thrown into the sea, including the Russian woman and four Indian men. Gautam Singhania was among those rescued and sustained minor injuries. He was discharged from the hospital after treatment and has since returned to Mumbai, where he is recovering. However, two Indian nationals remain missing..
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard has launched extensive search operations, deploying divers and aerial surveillance to locate the missing individuals. The incident occurred approximately two nautical miles southwest of Keyodhoo. The search efforts are being hampered by high sea waves, according to the MNDF. One of the missing individuals has been identified as Hari Singh, an Indian motorsports figure and rally driver.
The exact cause of the capsizing is still under investigation, with authorities examining various factors, including weather conditions and operational issues. While the identities of both missing persons have not been officially released pending notification of next of kin, one has been identified as Hari Singh.
The Indian High Commission in Maldives is coordinating with local authorities to facilitate rescue efforts and provide consular assistance. The High Commission has reiterated its commitment to the welfare and safety of Indian nationals in the Maldives and provides a dedicated emergency contact number for 24/7 assistance.
This incident highlights concerns regarding maritime safety protocols for private excursions in the Maldives, especially during the peak tourist season.
The accident occurred on Thursday night/early Friday morning, March 20-21, 2026. The news reports vary slightly on the exact timing, with some indicating Thursday night and others early Friday morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Gautam Singhania after the speedboat capsized?
Gautam Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director of the Raymond Group, was rescued after the speedboat capsized near Felidhoo island in the Maldives. He sustained minor injuries, was treated at a hospital, and has since returned to Mumbai to recover.
How many people were on board the speedboat when it capsized?
There were seven people on board the speedboat at the time of the incident. The group included five Indian men, a British national, and a Russian national.
What is the status of the missing Indian nationals?
Two Indian nationals remain missing following the speedboat capsizing. The Maldives National Defence Force is actively conducting search and rescue operations, though high sea waves are making the search difficult. One of the missing individuals has been identified as Hari Singh, an Indian motorsports figure.