NASA astronaut Sunita Williams’ extended family that lives in Gujarat celebrated her safe return by distributing sweets on Wednesday.
Her first cousin (on her father’s side) Dinesh Raval who lives in Ahmedabad says, “We are indeed very happy that Sunita is back to earth, but the last 24 hours were very stressful for us.”
The family members visited the temple to pray for Sunita’s safe return. They were also doing Mahamrutyunjay Jaap at home.
The family had installed an ‘Akahnd Diya’ at home which continued to light until Sunita descended safely. The family conceded that they were stressed as they were continuously being reminded of the Kalpana Chawla incident.
Also read: Gujarat: Sunita Williams' ancestral village over the moon
Their home was decorated with Asopalav archway over the entrance as according to Hindu religion it is considered auspicious. When Sunita splashed down safely, the entire clan who was watching it live since long, burst into happiness. They threw rose petals over each other and in air to celebrate the moment. They also greeted each other with sweets.
Sunita Williams has deep feelings for her extended family and the Hindu religion. That is the reason she carried Bhagvad Gita with her to space, they said.
Looking to her love for family, country and spirituality, the family members are sure that as soon as Sunita is in good shape, she will come to Ahmedabad and visit ‘Dolo Mataji’ temple in their hometown. Sunita has deep faith in the goddess and visits regularly, they said.
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