Man who spent 2 decades in Saudi jail, faced death sentence returns to Kerala

Rahim landed at the Karipur airport and was then escorted by his relatives. The former prisoner shed a few tears upon finally reaching his homeland following a 20-year-long wait, news agency PTI reported.

Businessman Bobby Chemmanur hugged him upon his arrival as crowd and media gathered at the airport for his welcome. Rahim was seen indicating a ‘thumbs-up’ impression.

"I am thankful to everyone who helped me," he told reporters as he got in his car. He then headed to his house where his mother, friends and local residents had gathered in large numbers. The fact that his arrival coincided with Bakrid added to the pomp and show. "It doubles our happiness," locals and Rahim's friends told reporters.