A Hero’s Welcome in Her Ancestral Village
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams’ return to Earth is being celebrated with immense enthusiasm in Jhulasan, her ancestral village in Gujarat’s Mehsana district. The villagers have planned grand festivities, resembling the joyous spirit of Diwali and Holi, to mark the occasion. Williams, who spent over nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has remained in the thoughts and prayers of the village residents, who eagerly await her safe return.
Jhulasan, the native village of Williams’ father, Deepak Pandya, is abuzz with excitement as locals prepare for a grand procession in her honor. Special prayers have been held at the village temple, where an Akhand Jyot (eternal flame) was lit for her well-being. The villagers plan to offer this sacred flame to Goddess Dola Mata once Williams safely lands on Earth.
Grand Procession and Celebratory Fireworks
According to her cousin, Navin Pandya, the village has organized a vibrant celebration, complete with a procession featuring Williams’ photograph, prayer chanting, and fireworks. The atmosphere in Jhulasan is one of deep pride and joy, as the villagers view Williams as a source of inspiration and a symbol of their rich heritage.
“We have been praying for her safe return, and now that the moment is near, the entire village is preparing to celebrate. We will perform a dhun (prayer chanting) at the temple and dedicate our prayers to Goddess Dola Mata. After her successful return, the Akhand Jyot will be offered to the deity as a mark of gratitude,” said Pandya.
The villagers are also hopeful that Sunita Williams will visit Jhulasan in the near future. “We are eager to welcome her back to her paternal village. Having her among us would be a moment of great pride and joy,” he added.
A Landmark Mission Comes to an End
Sunita Williams is returning to Earth alongside fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore after an extended stay at the ISS. Their mission, originally scheduled to last just seven days, was prolonged due to technical issues. The two astronauts will be making their return aboard a SpaceX spacecraft, concluding what has been a challenging and eventful mission.
This marks Williams’ third journey into space, further solidifying her place among the most accomplished astronauts. Over the course of her career, she has logged an impressive 62 hours across nine spacewalks, setting a record for the most time spent spacewalking by a female astronaut.
Williams’ father, Deepak Pandya, migrated to the United States in 1957, but the connection to her ancestral roots remains strong. As the world celebrates her achievements, the people of Jhulasan are preparing to honor her in a truly memorable way. Their celebrations not only reflect their admiration for Sunita Williams but also highlight the deep emotional bond they share with one of their own who has reached for the stars.
