The nation is currently witnessing an unprecedented situation. The pandemic has left no stone unturned whilst numerous frontline workers across different fields are fighting to contain the virus and keep people safe. One among such warriors is Commander Pushpanjali Potsangbam, an Air India pilot, who has been flying to different nations to rescue stranded Indian nationals and bringing them home.
Potsangbam’s husband— former Indian soccer captain and central defender Gouramangi Singh—currently at his residence in Manipur, feels “immensely proud” at his wife responding to the “nation’s call”.
“I have played football for India for so many years. Wearing that jersey and singing the National Anthem – it’s a feeling of pride, you cannot put it into words. I am sure it must be the same feeling for her,” said Gouramangi.
“We’re happy to do our part. I have done it through football which is something I have loved since my childhood. Now my wife is doing it through her profession. It’s her passion. There are sacrifices that we made and are still making now. Nevertheless, in the end, it’s a proud feeling.”
“One of the positives of the lockdown period was that most of us, footballers, got to spend time with their families. We generally stay out and travel a lot and our families make a lot of sacrifices for us.”
Throughout the lockdown, the Air India crew has flown to different cities in foreign countries to get the necessary medicines, kits, and other supplies. Now, they have been flying to places like Auckland, Cairo, Dublin and Lagos— that essentially are “offline” stations for them.
“They do not make it seem like a big deal, but from our talks, I have come to know how much work goes into flying into places that they don’t regularly fly to,” Gouramangi, former AIFF Player of the Year, said.
“The crew goes through a lot of stress and anxiety during their flights as they keep themselves isolated from their families till the third test comes negative— the first one is one done after 5 days of arrival into the base. To do that once or twice is fine but they live through that week after week for the safety of their loved ones.”
The 34-year-old player admitted that the situation can get “worrying” at times but stated the importance of looking at the brighter side of things.
“It is not an ideal scenario. I would be lying if I say that I am not concerned or worried but it is an unprecedented situation and you can either remain upset or you can look at the positives. Thanks to the technology, we stay in touch through video calls, communicate regularly, and keep a positive outlook,” he added.
Gouramangi also lauded the unwavering efforts of the frontline workers— all of whom have been fighting hard day in day out to keep citizens safe.
“From the armed forces who protect our borders to the frontline workers such as doctors, nurses, police personnel, airline staff— so many people are sacrificing their precious lives for our sake. We should not overlook the efforts they are putting in right now for the country and countrymen. We must follow the regulations laid down by the government and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe,” Gouramangi expressed.