Villagers Have Lit Up ‘Jyot’ for Williams’ Safe Return: Cousin
As the world eagerly awaits the return of NASA astronaut Sunita Williams to Earth after nine months at the International Space Station, her ancestral village in Gujarat is gearing up for grand celebrations. The residents of Jhulasan, her hometown in Mehsana district, are preparing to welcome her back with open arms, and their enthusiasm is palpable. As Williams is set to return to Earth on Wednesday, the villagers have been offering prayers and have lit up an ‘Akhand Jyot’ (a continuous flame) for her safe return.
According to Sunita Williams’ cousin, Navin Pandya, the villagers have been preparing for this moment for weeks. “We are very excited about her return,” Pandya exclaimed. “The villagers have been offering prayers and have lit up the Akhand Jyot to ensure her safe return.” The villagers believe that the continuous flame will guide Williams back to her homeland safely.
The preparations for Williams’ return are not limited to just prayers and the Akhand Jyot. The villagers have also been busy making arrangements for a grand welcome ceremony. The village will be decorated with colorful lights, and a procession will be taken out to welcome Williams back to her ancestral home. Fireworks will also be a part of the celebrations to mark the occasion.
Pandya revealed that the villagers have also been making traditional Gujarati dishes, such as khichdi and dal, to welcome Williams back. “We want to make her feel special and welcome her back with a warm heart,” he said. The villagers are also planning to present her with gifts, including traditional clothing and decorative items.
Williams’ family is equally excited about her return. Her brother, Dinesh Pandya, said that the family was eagerly awaiting her return and was making all the necessary arrangements to welcome her back. “We are very proud of Sunita’s achievements,” he said. “She is an inspiration to all of us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to welcome her back to our village.”
Sunita Williams’ journey to space began in 2006 when she flew to the International Space Station as part of the STS-116 mission. Since then, she has completed three space missions, including a 195-day stay on the International Space Station in 2007. Her most recent mission, which began in December 2021, saw her spend nine months at the space station.
Williams’ achievements in space exploration are not limited to her numerous missions. She has also been recognized for her contributions to the field of space science. In 2012, she was awarded the NASA Exceptional Service Medal for her contributions to the success of the STS-133 mission.
As Williams prepares to return to Earth, the villagers of Jhulasan are eagerly awaiting her arrival. The village is expected to be filled with cheers and applause as Williams returns to her ancestral home. The villagers’ enthusiasm is a testament to the pride they take in their hometown girl’s achievements and their gratitude for the opportunity to welcome her back.
As we await Williams’ return to Earth, it is clear that her journey has not only inspired her family and friends but also her entire village. Her achievements in space exploration have brought pride and recognition to Jhulasan, and her return will be a celebration of her accomplishments.
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