Chennai: The family of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman looked very composed as visitors thronged his residence here to express solidarity with them. On Thursday, people from all walks of life, including leaders of various political parties, made a beeline to the house at the Air Force Colony in Jalvayu Vihar near Selaiyur on the city outskirts.
“When I tried to console them, they told me to be brave and strong. They were confident that Abhinandan would return home safely. No wonder the braveheart pilot is an epitome of courage and grace,” former Union minister T R Baalu said.
Like him, many other ministers and party leaders who came with a heavy heart returned feeling relieved seeing the family maintaining a firm face even in times of adversity.
Abhinandan’s father Air Marshal (Retd) S Varthaman and mother Dr Shobha remained inside the house throughout the day, keeping themselves strictly away from the media glare. However, later they issued a press note thanking everyone who prayed for the safe return of their son.
“We are grateful to all of you for the support and prayers. Let’s thank God for his blessings. Abhi will be returning home unscathed, physically and emotionally. He remained calm and composed even when he was held captive. We derive strength from the support of the entire nation,” the couple said.
Abhinandan hails from a family of defence personnel who have served in different ranks. His grandfather had served the nation during World War II in the Air Force, while Abhinandan's wife Tanvi Marwaha is a retired squadron leader.
Varthaman's MiG-21 was shot and he bailed out after bringing down one Pakistani F-16 fighter during a dogfight to repel a Pakistani attack on Wednesday morning. He has been in Pakistan since then.
The official announcement of his release sparked off celebrations in the locality with relatives and neighbours distributing sweets and shouting 'Jai Hind'.
His parents left for New Delhi around 8 pm to receive their son who is expected to reach there on Friday.
