MUMBAI: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday met the uncle and aunt of Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar in Mumbai and enquired about the pilot, who has been hailed for his courage and presence of mind after a mid-air emergency.The meeting came as support and appreciation continued to pour in for the Mumbai pilot following the Flydubai flight incident in which Machchhar helped save hundreds of lives despite being seriously injured.In his post on X, the CM said, “In a moment of grave danger, Smit displayed remarkable courage, presence of mind and a deep sense of responsibility, helping save the lives of everyone on board. His bravery in the face of such a difficult situation is truly commendable.”Fadnavis had earlier hailed Machchhar as a “true hero”, saying he was “super proud” of Mumbai’s son for saving hundreds of lives in an “exceptional and extraordinary manner”.“Wishing Smit a very speedy recovery and good health! You are an inspiration. Maharashtra & India is proud of you!” Fadnavis had said.The chief minister had also praised Machchhar for displaying “presence of mind and courage” despite being “ghastly injured” during the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.He also lauded passengers who worked together to deal with the difficult situation and reach safety.Machchhar’s actions have drawn praise beyond Maharashtra, with President Draupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing him as a “hero”.President Droupadi Murmu said the nation was proud of Machchhar and praised his “heroic courage and incredible presence of mind” during the incident. “The nation is proud of Captain Smit Machchhar. His heroic courage and incredible presence of mind have deeply touched us all,” Murmu said in a post on X.“Captain Smit Machchhar is a hero,” PM Modi said in a post on X, adding that his valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy. He also wished Machchhar a speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.External affairs minister S Jaishankar also praised Machchhar’s “extraordinary courage” and “remarkable presence of mind”, saying his actions saved hundreds of lives and helped avert a major tragedy.Meanwhile, residents and neighbours in Mumbai have rallied around Machchhar and his family, hailing him as a “real hero” and praying for his speedy recovery.Special prayers and havan conducted at Kalkaji Temple, Delhi for the health and long life of Smit Machchhar.Prayers were also offered at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple for the health and speedy recovery of Flydubai ‘Hero’ Captain Smit Machchhar. Devotees prayed for his well-being and long life.The pilot’s neighbourhood has also seen residents come together to honour his actions.
