Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar is being hailed as a national hero after bravely overcoming an alleged cockpit attack by his co-pilot over Saudi Arabia. Despite severe injuries, he managed to let the crew and passengers overpower the attacker, helping off-duty pilots land the 174 passengers safely in Tabuk.
Prominent members of the film industry, alongside global leaders, have taken to social media to commend his unmatched valour.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Captain Machchhar over a video call, calling him a hero who averted a major catastrophe.
An unforgettable conversation with Captain Smit, filled with pride and emotions. pic.twitter.com/CCf46PKOWR
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2026
Tributes quickly poured in from Bollywood and regional cinema. Actor R Madhavan shared the Prime Minister’s statement, writing, “Praying for the speedy recovery of a true hero.”
Telugu superstar Vijay Deverakonda also expressed his awe, stating, “What you faced and what you did is incredible.”
May God protect you and bless you Captain 🙏❤️
What you faced and what you did is incredible. Along with everyone else on that flight. https://t.co/lKK8gzyMZy
— Vijay Deverakonda (@TheDeverakonda) October 1, 2026
Actor-politician Ravi Kishan praised the pilot’s selfless devotion to duty, while veteran actor Paresh Rawal offered a witty nod to his surname, recalling a famous cinematic dialogue.
कर्तव्य के प्रति अटूट निष्ठा, अदम्य साहस और असाधारण सूझबूझ का नाम हैं Captain Smit Machchhar। 🇮🇳
गंभीर रूप से घायल होने के बावजूद स्वयं की चिंता किए बिना सैकड़ों लोगों के जीवन की रक्षा के लिए जिस साहस, धैर्य और कर्तव्यपरायणता का उन्होंने परिचय दिया, वह न केवल अनुकरणीय है, बल्कि… pic.twitter.com/s1FtT7iEAm
— Ravi Kishan (@ravikishann) October 1, 2026
Captain Machchhar is currently recovering from his injuries, leaving the nation immensely proud of his exemplary courage.
