Archive · 4 Oct 2026
Pilot Recites Hanuman Chalisa During Midair Attack
The account says a pilot named Captain Smith Machar was attacked by his co-pilot while flying a plane.
Machar was hurt, but he kept trying to help everyone aboard.
He said reciting the Hanuman Chalisa helped him stay calm and focused.
He opened the cockpit door, and passengers helped stop the attacker.
The plane was diverted and landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
More than 170 passengers were aboard.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the pilot.
The incident also led to discussion about politics and religion in India.
The account says Captain Smith Machar was attacked and stabbed by his co-pilot at 34,000 feet.
Machar said reciting the Hanuman Chalisa helped him stay focused and calm.
Despite his injuries, he opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers to subdue the attacker.
The plane, carrying more than 170 passengers, was diverted and landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
Narendra Modi praised Machar, while the incident also prompted debate in India about political recognition and religious discourse.
- Who
- Captain Smith Machar, his co-pilot, and more than 170 passengers; Narendra Modi also publicly praised the pilot.
- What
- The account says Machar was attacked and stabbed, then opened the cockpit door so passengers could subdue the attacker.
- When
- During a midair flight; no date is provided.
- Where
- At 34,000 feet; the plane later landed in Saudi Arabia.
- Why
- The account says the co-pilot attacked Machar; it does not state a motive.
- Pilot
- Captain Smith Machar, described as Indian-origin
- Reported altitude
- 34,000 feet
- Passengers
- More than 170
- Incident described
- The co-pilot attacked and stabbed Machar
- Pilot's account
- He said reciting the Hanuman Chalisa helped him stay focused and calm
- Outcome
- The plane was diverted and landed safely in Saudi Arabia
- Political response
- Narendra Modi praised Machar; the account says some opposition leaders faced criticism for not commenting