Jhulasan Village Prays for Safe Return of Astronaut Sunita Williams

Residents of Jhulasan village in Gujarat, India, have come together in prayer for the safe return of Sunita Williams, the Indian-origin American astronaut currently facing challenges in space. On June 29, the small village turned into a centre of spiritual activity as hundreds of locals marched through the streets, expressing their deep concern and affection for Williams. Despite not growing up in Jhulasan, Williams is cherished like a daughter by the villagers.

A Heartfelt Display of Faith

The villagers’ devotion was on full display as mothers, fathers, and children took part in the march, beating drums and carrying portraits of Sunita Williams. The procession eventually gathered at a local hall, where the participants lit candles and chanted prayers, seeking protection and strength from the Hindu goddess Maa. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, as many villagers see Williams as a symbol of pride and hope, deeply connected to their community despite her upbringing in the US.

One villager articulated the shared sentiment, saying, “Although Sunita has not grown up here, people love her like their own daughter.” This statement reflects the profound pride and affection that the villagers feel for Williams, whose ancestral roots trace back to Jhulasan.

Concerns Over the Starliner Mission

Sunita Williams, along with fellow NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, embarked on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, their mission encountered a major setback when the spacecraft’s lift-off, initially scheduled for June 5, was delayed due to helium leaks and other technical issues. This delay has heightened anxiety among the villagers, who have been closely following the developments, worried for Williams’ safety.

A Personal Mission for Jhulasan

The Boeing Starliner mission is critical for NASA, as it aims to establish a reliable method of transporting astronauts to and from the ISS. However, for the people of Jhulasan, this mission is much more than a technical endeavour; it is deeply personal. The villagers are anxiously awaiting the safe return of Sunita Williams, whom they regard as one of their own, hoping that their prayers will guide her safely back to Earth.