Sanjay Seth prays for hero pilot Smit Machchhar in Ranchi
Union Minister Sanjay Seth and Ranchi Mayor perform puja for Captain Smit Machchhar, the hero pilot who averted a mid-air disaster.
In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity and prayer, Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth joined Ranchi Mayor Roshni Khalkho at the Pahari Temple on Saturday. The leaders performed a special puja to seek the speedy recovery of pilot Smit Machchhar, the courageous aviator who recently became a global symbol of bravery after averting a catastrophic mid-air disaster.
A Hero Who Defied Death and Disaster
Captain Smit Machchhar, 39, is being hailed as a hero across the globe for his extraordinary actions during flydubai Flight FZ1073 on September 30, 2026. While commanding the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the aircraft faced a terrifying moment when the co-pilot allegedly launched a violent attack inside the cockpit using a sharp weapon.
The struggle was so intense that the Boeing 737 MAX entered a sudden, steep dive, plummeting approximately 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds. Despite sustaining severe head trauma, multiple stab wounds, and losing a significant amount of blood, Captain Machchhar refused to succumb to the chaos.
The Fight to Save 174 Lives
In a display of sheer willpower, the injured pilot managed to push himself up from the cockpit floor to unlock the reinforced door. This allowed passengers and crew to enter and subdue the attacker. The crisis was further managed by two off-duty flydubai pilots traveling on the same flight, who helped level the aircraft and divert it for an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, ensuring the safety of all 174 people on board.
"The World is Proud of Him"
Speaking after the prayers in Ranchi, Minister Sanjay Seth emphasized the immense pride the nation and the world feel for the pilot. "Today, not just the country but the entire world is proud of a pilot like Smit Machchhar, who saved hundreds of lives," Seth stated. He noted that despite being under extreme pressure and facing poor health, the pilot never wavered from his duty.
The Minister also shared details of a remarkable conversation between the pilot and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to Seth, the Prime Minister spoke to Machchhar, who revealed that in the midst of the life-threatening crisis, he had recited the Hanuman Chalisa to find strength. During the call, the pilot expressed his deep respect for the Prime Minister, calling him his idol.
As Captain Machchhar continues his recovery, the Minister called upon the collective strength of the people to pray for his long life and health. "It is our collective duty to pray for his good health and long life. We hope that he recovers quickly and returns to his duties," Seth added.