The family of Indian Air Force hero Squadron Leader AB Devayya has expressed heartfelt gratitude to actors Akshay Kumar and Veer Pahariya for helping them recover a long-lost piece of their legacy the Mahavir Chakra medal awarded posthumously to Devayya for his bravery in the 1965 Indo-Pak war. Months after the release of Sky Force, the emotional story has come full circle with a powerful real-life impact.
View this post on Instagram
An Emotional Reunion with History
Taking to social media, Preetha Devayya, daughter of AB Devayya, shared an emotional post detailing how the medal, which had been stolen years ago, has now been returned to the family. She revealed that Veer Pahariya, who portrayed her father in Sky Force, had visited their home during the film’s shoot and learned about the theft.
“He and Akshay sir took it upon themselves to help us,” she wrote. “And today, because of both of them, my mother is holding the Mahavir Chakra once again.” Preetha added that her mother felt “complete” and finally at peace, after years of heartache and loss.
Veer Pahariya Reflects on His Acting Debut
Veer Pahariya, who made his acting debut with Sky Force, was visibly moved by the family’s gratitude. Sharing his thoughts on Instagram, he wrote, “This is why I chose to be an actor… to spread love, make a difference, and leave a little bit of myself behind in every story.” His statement resonated deeply with fans, showcasing how storytelling can extend beyond screens to touch lives in real ways.
Who Was AB Devayya?
Squadron Leader AB Devayya remains a revered figure in Indian Air Force history. He was the only IAF officer posthumously awarded the Mahavir Chakra for exceptional bravery during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. Tragically, his gallant contribution remained unsung for years, and the later theft of his medal added to the family’s pain—until now.
Sky Force: A Tribute in Cinema and Beyond
Sky Force, currently streaming on Prime Video, is an action-drama that captures India’s first airstrike at Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase in 1965. Directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, the film stars Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Sara Ali Khan, and Nimrat Kaur. Beyond its cinematic impact, Sky Force has now become a symbol of remembrance, respect, and restitution.
