Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Monday flew a sortie with Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa in Pathankot. As the two men walked to the MiG-21 fighter aircraft that they flew, Abhinandan was donning a graceful smile, however, his trademark moustache was not there. Wing Commander Abhinandan who had shot down Pakistan's F16 aircraft after the Balakot Airstrike and who was later captured by Pakistan made a triumphant return to the country after India's successful diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. He had on Monday resumed flying operation by flying MiG 21, videos of which went viral on social media. 

Abhinandan Varthaman's moustache should be made national moustache: Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary

However, netizens commented that they miss Abhinandan's trademark moustache. However, everyone celebrated his quick return to service. IAF chief BS Dhanoa also said that it was priviledge for him to fly with Abhinandan. He applauded the commander for his quick return to service and for getting back all his qualifications. Below are some of the reactions: 

Wing Commander Abhinandan & IAF Chief Dhanoa fly MiG-21 sortie, watch

Abhinandan's moustache national moustache 

Congress Lok Sabha leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on June 24 in Lok Sabha has said that Abhinandan's moutache should be made national moustache. "Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman should be awarded and his moustache should be made 'national moustache'." Pointing on the same, Omar Abdullah had said: "The Congress wants India to have a ‘national moustache’. I look forward to seeing all my friends in the Congress sporting Abhinandan taches." After Abhinandan's return from captivity in Pakistan, his look became the topic of talk. Youths wanted to sport the 'Abhinandan style' on their faces in a nod to the IAF pilot's emulable bravery and courage.

Wing Commander Abhinandan & IAF Chief fly a sortie aboard MiG-21

"Look forward to seeing all my friends in Congress sporting Abhinandan ‘taches," says Omar Abdullah on Party's 'national moustache' comment