During a phone call with PM Modi, the injured pilot, who received global appreciation for saving 170 lives on the flydubai flight despite facing a life-threatening attack in the cockpit, said the Prime Minister is his biggest idol.
Smit Machchhar, the flydubai hero pilot, told Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he recited Hanuman Chalisa– a devotional hymn — to draw courage during the confrontation with his Omani co-pilot aboard the flight to Tel Aviv, an act that became a global talking point.
Earlier on Thursday, PM Modi also spoke with the family members of Captain Smit Machchhar, lauding his valour mid-air. “Whenever I am in pain, I recite Hanuman Chalisa. PM Modi consoled him, validating his emotions. “You have done such a brave act that people from across India and the world want to talk to you. The Prime Minister also assured the Indian pilot and his family of all possible help, including medical assistance in his recovery.
The captain’s presence of mind, resourcefulness and act of bravery saved the lives of more than 170 people on board.
At that time also, I was reciting Hanuman Chalisa, and I know that it was God who saved me,” he said. Visibly moved and emotional over receiving a telephone call from PM Modi, Machchhar said, “You are my biggest idol, I am feeling very proud.
