India, Oct. 2 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar over a video call on Friday, praising his courage, presence of mind and composure during the mid-air crisis.

The virtual interaction came two days after Smit was injured after being stabbed by his co-pilot during the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

During the emotional conversation, Machchhar told Modi that he was his "biggest idol" and recalled how he recited the Hanuman Chalisa while facing the difficult situation aboard the flight.

Machchhar became emotional during the interaction and told Modi that it was a very special moment for him to speak with the Prime Minister. He said receiving the call had made him extremely proud and that he had never im...