Udaipur: Two traditional turban-makers in Rajasthan’s Udaipur have created a special headpiece to honour Captain Smit Machchhar, who saved the lives of 174 passengers aboard a flydubai flight.
The artisans have named their creation the ‘Captain Smit Machchhar 174 Bravery Turban’ and have approached the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) for assistance in delivering it to the pilot.
The tribute brings together Rajasthan’s traditions of valour, Mewar’s cultural heritage and symbols associated with aviation. Its creators say they were inspired by Machchhar’s reported act of courage and wanted to recognise him through a craft deeply rooted in the region’s history.
What Makes Captain Smit Machchhar’s Bravery Turban Special?
The turban features saffron, representing courage and pride in Rajasthan, alongside sky blue, symbolising the open sky. The number ‘174’ and the word ‘Sahas’, meaning courage, are also prominent elements of the design.
Jinesh and Jayant Kothari, who run the Shahi Taj turban-making establishment in Udaipur, said they felt proud after learning about the pilot’s actions and Indian origin.
The duo chose the traditional Bhopalshahi style for the headwear, drawing on Mewar’s custom of creating distinctive turbans to honour prominent personalities and mark significant occasions.
According to Jinesh, the turban took around four to five days to complete. The aim, the makers said, was to combine the region’s cultural identity with a tribute to courage displayed in the skies.
Artisans Seek PMO Help To Deliver Turban To Captain
The Kothari brothers have written to the PMO requesting assistance in ensuring that the turban reaches Captain Machchhar. They are also attempting 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,” the artisans said.
They added that Shahi Taj had previously prepared turbans for several prominent personalities in India and abroad. However, they described this particular creation as especially meaningful because of the pilot’s reported bravery.
Why The Tribute Holds Significance For Mewar
Special turbans have long been associated with honour, respect and important occasions in Rajasthan. By choosing this traditional form of craftsmanship, the artisans hope to recognise Machchhar’s actions while also showcasing Mewar’s cultural heritage.
For the makers, the tribute will be complete when the pilot receives and wears the turban.
“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.
The artisans are now working to establish contact with the relevant authorities to help deliver the headwear to the pilot.
