Failing to trace India’s noted rally driver Hari Singh, the Maldivian authorities called off the search operation late last night. Hari was involved in a fatal speedboat capsizing incident near Felidhoo island in the Maldives on March 19.The search for Hari, along with decorated sailor and former naval officer Commander Mahesh Ramachandran, was extended beyond the standard 72-hour procedure and continued for nearly eight days before being called off. The operation was carried out using drones, light aircraft and coordinated search teams.Back in Chandigarh, Hari’s family decided to hold a prayer meeting (bhog ceremony) in his remembrance at a gurdwara in Sector 8 on March 30.SPS Gharcha, president of the Chandigarh Motorsport Association and Hari’s close associate, said, “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 return to India now. It’s strange, not even a single thing linked to Hari was found. For me, he is missing, not dead.”Throughout the search, the motorsport fraternity, known for its strong sense of camaraderie and support in times of crisis, stood firmly with Hari’s family.Earlier, the Indian government had deployed a Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft and an advanced light helicopter to assist Maldivian forces. At sea, search and rescue responsibilities were shared between the two countries.Hari is among India’s most celebrated rally drivers, having won five Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) titles in the 1990s. Known for his fearless driving style and technical precision, he also made history by winning the inaugural Asia Zone Rally Championship, becoming one of the first Indian drivers to gain international recognition. He was also popularly known as the “Gypsy King”. After retiring from competitive racing, he continued to shape Indian motorsport, serving as head of operations at JK Tyre Motorsport and chief instructor for Mercedes-Benz India.The accident occurred in the early hours of March 19 when a high-performance speedboat carrying seven passengers capsized in choppy waters near Felidhoo island in Vaavu Atoll. The boat reportedly overturned around 1.15 am (local time), leaving several passengers struggling to escape. According to reports, three persons were rescued after the accident, including Indian tycoon Gautam Singhania, who later flew back to Mumbai.