Bollywood actor Esha Gupta has safely returned to India after being stranded in the United Arab Emirates during the recent escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran. The sudden conflict had disrupted air travel across the Gulf region, leaving several Indian nationals, including celebrities, stuck overseas.
Taking to Instagram, the actress informed her followers that she is now back home and expressed gratitude for the prayers and support she received during the crisis. She described the experience as one of the most stressful moments she has faced.
Airport Shutdown and Panic
According to Gupta, the tense situation unfolded while she was at the airport on February 28. Around early afternoon, airport operations were abruptly halted. Passengers were left confused as information was scarce in the initial hours.
Soon, reports of missile strikes began circulating, creating widespread panic among travellers. Gupta shared that strangers at the airport comforted one another while desperately trying to reach their families in India. She described the atmosphere as chaotic, with uncertainty looming over everyone present.
Praise for UAE Authorities
Gupta was at the airport in Abu Dhabi when the disruption occurred. She highlighted the swift response of airport authorities and security personnel, noting that despite the alarming circumstances, officials remained calm and professional throughout.
As she had not yet completed her check-in formalities, Gupta decided to return to her hotel in Abu Dhabi. Later that evening, she and other stranded travellers exchanged accounts of what they had witnessed during the airport shutdown.
The actress praised the United Arab Emirates administration and airline staff for their coordinated efforts during the emergency. She acknowledged the resilience and unity displayed by both authorities and passengers during the crisis.
Celebrities Among Stranded Indians
The sudden airspace restrictions and flight cancellations impacted many Indian travellers in the UAE. With tensions escalating after reported military strikes and retaliatory actions in the Middle East, airports across the region witnessed temporary closures and heightened security measures.
Gupta’s return marks one of the early safe arrivals as limited flight services gradually resume between the UAE and India. Her account offers a glimpse into the human side of the geopolitical crisis, highlighting fear, solidarity and relief.
