The entire country is rejoicing and celebrating the return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as the Indian Air Force pilot crossed over the Indian border at around 9.20 pm on Friday.
India cricketers, past and present, have welcomed Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who has returned home after being in Pakistan's custody for two days. The entire nation is celebrating the return of the Indian Air Force Wing Commander as the heroic soldier crossed over the Indian border just after 9 pm on Friday night.
Varthaman had fallen in the enemy territory while carrying out operations near the border area. Before he ejected from his aging MiG-21 hit in the aerial dogfight over the skies of Jammu, he had shot down a fourth generation F-16 fighter.
He was brutally beaten by Pakistani villagers before being taken by soldiers in clips that have since gone viral on social media. Later, a video showed a blindfolded Abhinandan telling his name and service number. Pakistan later released another video, showing the officer receiving good treatment.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and sports fraternity took to Twitter to welcome Wing Commander Abhinandan, who stepped on the India soil from Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar, Punjab, where thousands had been waiting for hours to have a glimpse of the brave IAF officer.
Sportspersons, including top former and current cricketers, also took to Twitter to welcome Varthaman.
"A hero is more than just four letters. Through his courage, selflessness, and perseverance, OUR HERO teaches us to have faith in ourselves. #WelcomeHomeAbhinandan," batting legend Sachin Tendulkar wrote in his page.
India skipper Virat Kohli also shared a picture of the Indian hero in his social media account.
Former India coach, Anil Kumble said in a tweet, "We salute your bravery #WelcomeHomeAbhinandan."
Ace Indian tennis player, Sania Mirza tweeted, "Welcome back Wing Commander Abhinandan .. you are our HERO in the truest sense… The country salutes you and the bravery and dignity you have shown #Respect #WelcomeBackAbinandan Jai Hind."
