Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman’s name became globally recognized following his capture by the Pakistan Army in February 2019. His subsequent release and the events surrounding his capture remain a significant chapter in recent Indo-Pakistani relations.

Abhinandan Varthaman In The Custody Of Pakistan

On February 27, 2019, videos surfaced online showing Abhinandan Varthaman, a MiG-21 Bison pilot, in Pakistani custody. He was visibly injured and blindfolded in one video, identifying himself and his service number. Another video showed him being subjected to what appeared to be mob violence.

Major General Asif Ghafoor, the spokesperson for the Pakistan Armed Forces, confirmed his capture, stating that two Indian pilots were in custody and receiving medical attention.

Statement Of The Indian Government On The Missing IAF Pilot On 27 February 2019

The Indian government swiftly acknowledged the missing pilot, confirming his capture by Pakistan. This incident unfolded amidst heightened tensions following the Pulwama attack.

Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman With His Fellow Officers

Abhinandan Varthaman hails from Tambaram, Chennai, with ancestral roots in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. Born on June 21, 1983, he was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on June 19, 2004.

In a later video, he praised the Pakistani army and revealed he was married.

Abhinandan Varthaman’s Wife Tanvi Marwaha As The Squadron leader

Abhinandan is married to Tanvi Marwaha, a former Squadron Leader in the Indian Air Force with 15 years of service (Service Number 28800). She completed the Armed Forces Executive Course from IIM Ahmedabad and currently works as a DGM at Reliance Jio in Bengaluru. The couple has a son, Tavish.

Abhinandan Varthaman’s Parents

Abhinandan’s father, Simhakutty Varthaman, is a retired Air Marshal of the Indian Air Force, a recipient of several prestigious medals. He served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief in the Eastern Air Command (Service Number 13606). His mother, Shobha, is a doctor. Interestingly, Simhakutty also worked as an advisor on the film Kaatru Veliyidai, which coincidentally depicts a similar scenario of an Indian pilot held as a prisoner of war.

The Pulwama Attack And Its Aftermath

The events surrounding Abhinandan’s capture occurred in the context of the 2019 Pulwama attack, where 40 CRPF personnel were killed. India responded with airstrikes on Balakot, Pakistan, leading to escalating tensions and the subsequent aerial engagement resulting in Abhinandan’s capture.

Tweets Following The Capture of Abhinandan Varthaman By Pakistan

Following his capture, social media was flooded with messages expressing concern and hope for his safe return. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan announced his release, which occurred on March 1, 2019, via the Wagah border.

Abhinandan Varthaman being awarded Vir Chakra by President Ram Nath Kovind at an investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi

Abhinandan was later awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest gallantry award, for his bravery. His mannequin was even displayed in a Pakistani war museum, a peculiar yet symbolic footnote to this significant event.

Here’s a summary of key dates and events:

Here’s a glimpse of Abhinandan Varthaman’s stint at the Indian Air Force:

• Commissioned: June 19, 2004
• Aircraft: MiG-21 Bison
• Awards: Vir Chakra

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