Following the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers, retaliatory measures were taken by Indian army and airforce, involving in several airstrikes and destroying Jaish E Mohammed camps, and yesterday during a counter attack, Wing Commander Varthaman's jet was shot down, and he is currently held captive by Pakistan.

After being attacked by a mob, he was reportedly rescued by Pakistan army, and a video was released, where he is seen answering questions asked by Pakistan army. While saying that he comes from down south of India, he also refused to divulge any details on his jet and the mission for which he had been sent by Indian air force.

Following this, actor Karthi had revealed that he was trained by Abhinandan's father Varthaman for Maniratnam's Kaatru Veliyidai where he played a fighter pilot who gets captured by Pakistan during Kargil war.He added that he was fortunate to have met few fighter pilots of IAF, and that it was a honour to know the men who are from a different league. Karthi prayed for the safe return of the soldiers, and said that it is their bravery and sacrifices that keep us safe in the country.