Residents of NASA astronaut Sunita Williams’ ancestral village in Gujarat’s Mehsana district are preparing for Diwali-like celebrations on Wednesday morning to mark her scheduled return to Earth after a nine-month stay at the International Space Station.
Jhulasan village, the ancestral home of Williams’ father, Deepak Pandya, is filled with anticipation. Villagers have been offering prayers for her safe return, with many lighting an Akhand Jyot (eternal flame) at the local temple dedicated to Goddess Dola Mata.
Williams’ cousin, Navin Pandya, confirmed plans for a grand procession featuring her photograph, prayer chanting, and fireworks to create a festive atmosphere reminiscent of Diwali and Holi.
“We have organised a procession with Sunita Williams’ photograph and will perform a dhun (prayer chanting) at the temple. We had been offering prayers and lighting the Akhand Jyot for her safe return. This Jyot will be offered to Goddess Dola Mata on Wednesday after her return to Earth,” he said.
The villagers are also eager to extend an invitation for Williams to visit her paternal village in the future. Her third space mission has further heightened the community’s excitement, with residents expressing pride in her achievements.
The celebrations reflect the strong emotional connection the villagers maintain with Williams, who has long been a source of inspiration for the community.
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