JJAIPUR: Two turban-makers in Rajasthan’s Udaipur have designed a special turban to honour Captain Smit Machchhar, who saved the lives of 174 passengers aboard a flydubai flight.The turban-makers have also approached the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) for assistance in delivering the turban to the pilot.Named the ‘Captain Smit Machchhar 174 Bravery Turban’, the unique headwear blends Rajasthan’s tradition of valour and Mewar’s cultural heritage with aviation-themed symbolsThe turban features saffron, symbolising Rajasthan’s courage and pride, and sky blue, representing the open sky. The number ‘174’ and the word ‘Sahas’ (courage) have been prominently incorporated into its design.Jinesh and Jayant Kothari of Shahi Taj, a turban-making establishment in Udaipur, told news agency PTI that Captain Machchhar’s heroics had deeply moved them.They said learning about his courage and Indian roots filled them with pride and inspired them to honour him through their traditional craft.According to the turban-makers, Mewar has a long tradition of preparing special turbans to honour distinguished personalities and mark important occasions.In keeping with this tradition, they have designed the turban in the traditional ‘Bhopalshahi’ style.Jinesh said the turban took around four to five days to make. The makers said they wanted to bring together symbols of courage, cultural heritage and aviation to honour Captain Machchhar’s bravery in the sky.Jinesh and Jayant said they have written to the PMO seeking assistance in delivering the turban to Captain Machchhar.They are also trying to contact flydubai and relevant authorities in India and the United Arab Emirates.“We want this turban to reach Captain Machchhar so that he can accept this honour from Mewar,” they said.They said Shahi Taj had previously prepared turbans for several prominent personalities in India and abroad, but Captain Machchhar’s courage made this tribute special.“The day Captain Machchhar wears this turban will be a moment of pride not only for us but for the entire Mewar region,” they said.(With agency inputs)
