Pilot Smit Machchhar’s Century-Old Wadhwan Roots From Gujarat Surface After Dubai-Israel Flight Incident

The bravery of Indian pilot Smit Machchhar during a mid-air attack on a Dubai-to-Israel flight has brought a sense of pride to Wadhwan and the wider Jhalawad region, where his family’s roots reportedly go back around a century.

Machchhar, who was injured after being attacked with a knife by his Omani co-pilot during the flight, is being praised for helping prevent what could have turned into a major aviation disaster involving the 174 passengers on board.

Despite being injured, Machchhar fought back against the attacker with the help of passengers and managed to subdue him. He is currently undergoing medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

Family Roots In Wadhwan

According to locals and senior community leaders, Machchhar’s family originally lived in Wadhwan, in Surendranagar district. The family’s home was reportedly located in Pandya-pa Street in the Khandipol locality.

Local accounts state that the house belonged to Harjivanbhai Machchhar, with his son Bhupendrabhai and grandson Smit among those who lived there.

The family subsequently moved to Mumbai around 100 years ago for professional reasons. The Wadhwan house was later sold to another family.

News of Machchhar’s actions during the flight, however, has brought his ancestral connection with Wadhwan back into the spotlight.

Neighbours, community members and local leaders expressed pride in the pilot, saying his actions had brought recognition to both his family and the Jhalawad region.

Praise In Savarkundla, His In-Laws’ Town

Machchhar’s bravery has also been celebrated in Savarkundla, where his in-laws live.

Machchhar married Sonal Jogi, a native of Savarkundla, in 2012. His brother-in-law, Hiren Jogi, is an incense-stick businessman based on Post Office Road in the town.

Hiren said Machchhar is his brother-in-law and that the entire family was proud of the courage he displayed during the emergency.

The incident had initially caused concern among his relatives in Savarkundla. The family later learned that Machchhar had helped ensure the safety of the passengers despite being injured himself.

Gujarat Government To Honour Pilot

Machchhar’s actions have received widespread appreciation, with his bravery being highlighted both in India and abroad.

The Gujarat government has also announced that he will be honoured with the Gujarat Garima Award.

For Wadhwan and Savarkundla, Machchhar’s actions have added a strong local dimension to an incident that drew attention far beyond Gujarat, with residents and relatives celebrating the pilot’s courage and his efforts to protect passengers during a critical situation.