Chandigarh, Updated At: 01:32 PM Mar 28, 2026 IST
Maldivian authorities have called off the search for India’s celebrated rally driver Hari Singh late last night after failing to trace him following a speedboat accident near Felidhoo island on March 19. Hari was among seven passengers aboard a high-performance speedboat that capsized in choppy waters near Felidhoo in Vaavu Atoll in the early hours; the vessel reportedly overturned around 1.15 am (local time).
The search, which also sought decorated sailor and former naval officer Commander Mahesh Ramachandran, was extended well beyond the standard 72-hour window and continued for nearly eight days using drones, light aircraft and coordinated human teams. India had provided a Dornier maritime surveillance plane and an advanced light helicopter to assist Maldivian forces, and sea search-and-rescue responsibilities were shared between the two countries.
“No headway, not even a single hint, the operation has been called off late last night. His friends, who were involved in the operation, will be back to India now. It’s strange, not even a single thing attached to Hari was found,” said SPS Gharcha, president of the Chandigarh Motorsport Association and a close associate of Hari.
Back in Chandigarh, Hari’s family announced a Bhog ceremony (prayer meeting) in his remembrance on March 30 at Gurdwara Sahib Patshahi Dasvin in Sector 8.
Hari Singh, widely known as the ‘Gypsy King’, was one of India’s most celebrated rally drivers, winning five Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) titles in the 1990s. He also won the inaugural Asia Zone Rally Championship, becoming among the first Indian drivers to gain recognition internationally. After retiring from competition, he continued to shape Indian motorsport as Head of Operations at JK Tyre Motorsport and as Chief Instructor for Mercedes‑Benz India.
