A Warm Welcome in Her Ancestral Village
As NASA astronaut Sunita Williams prepares to return to Earth, her ancestral village, Jhulasan, in Gujarat’s Mehsana district, is gearing up for a grand celebration. The villagers have planned large-scale festivities, drawing parallels to the joyous atmosphere of Diwali and Holi, to honor her homecoming. Williams, who spent over nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has been in the prayers of the villagers, who eagerly anticipate her safe return.
Jhulasan, the native village of Williams’ father, Deepak Pandya, is abuzz with excitement. Residents have been holding special prayers at the village temple, lighting an Akhand Jyot (eternal flame) for her well-being. The villagers plan to offer this sacred flame to Goddess Dola Mata as a token of gratitude once Williams safely lands back on Earth.
Festive Procession and Fireworks
Williams’ cousin, Navin Pandya, shared that the village has arranged an elaborate celebration, including a vibrant procession featuring her photograph, devotional chants, and fireworks. The villagers see Williams as a source of immense pride and inspiration, making this event a truly special occasion.
“We have been praying for her safe return, and now that the moment is near, the entire village is preparing to celebrate. A dhun (prayer chanting) will take place at the temple, and once she lands safely, the Akhand Jyot will be dedicated to Goddess Dola Mata,” said Pandya.
The residents of Jhulasan are also hopeful that Sunita Williams will visit her ancestral home in the near future. “It would be an honor to have her here. We look forward to welcoming her with open arms,” he added.
A Remarkable Space Mission Concludes
Williams, along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, is returning to Earth after an extended stay at the ISS. Their mission, initially planned to last just seven days, was prolonged due to technical complications. The astronauts are now set to return aboard a SpaceX spacecraft, concluding a demanding and eventful mission.
This marks Sunita Williams’ third journey into space, further cementing her status as one of NASA’s most accomplished astronauts. Throughout her career, she has logged an impressive 62 hours over nine spacewalks, setting a record for the most time spent spacewalking by a female astronaut.
Sunita Williams father, Deepak Pandya, migrated to the United States in 1957, but the bond with her ancestral roots remains strong. While the world celebrates her extraordinary achievements, the people of Jhulasan are ensuring that her return is marked with the honor and admiration she truly deserves. Their celebrations are not just a tribute to her journey but also a testament to their deep connection with a woman who has reached for the stars.
