Abu Dhabi, October 4 (Daily Kiran) : A special prayer service was held at the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi on October 4, 2026, for Captain Smita Machhar of Flydubai, who is recovering from injuries sustained during a mid-air incident. The Indian Embassy confirmed on Sunday that Captain Machhar’s condition is improving and he is in stable health.
The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) shared a message on social media, stating that devotees gathered at the temple to pray for Captain Machhar and honor his exceptional bravery.
India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal, also shared the BAPS post on his official social media account, noting that prayers for Captain Machhar’s health are ongoing. He mentioned that the embassy is in contact with local authorities and the captain’s family, providing all possible assistance.
The BAPS Hindu Temple, the first of its kind in the Gulf region, has welcomed a large number of visitors since its inauguration in February 2024, with around 2.2 million guests in its first year.
On Saturday, Dubai’s Crown Prince and UAE Deputy Prime Minister Hamdan bin Mohammed visited Captain Machhar in the hospital, commending his courage. He expressed that Captain Machhar has displayed the highest sense of bravery and responsibility, and emphasized that the UAE is proud to have him as part of its community, representing the values of compassion and peace.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Captain Machhar via video call, praising his courage and composure during the emergency situation, where he played a crucial role in saving over 170 lives onboard.
During the call, Prime Minister Modi inquired about Captain Machhar’s health and assured him that the entire nation is praying for his swift recovery. “The whole country is praying for you. The Mahamrityunjaya mantra is being chanted for your health. Your bravery has saved many lives,” he said.
Captain Machhar responded affirmatively during the conversation, acknowledging the Prime Minister’s words.
The incident occurred on September 30 when Captain Machhar was injured during a flight from Dubai to Israel. An attacker in the cockpit assaulted him with a knife, causing the aircraft to descend rapidly. Captain Machhar bravely confronted the assailant, allowing passengers to subdue him. After the attacker was restrained, Captain Machhar received urgent medical attention, and the flight made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
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