The devastated families of the two young men who drowned in front of their fiancée and pregnant wife are hoping to bring their bodies home.

Sachin Khillan, 32, and Sahil Batra, 33 — two Indian nationals living in Sydney — were celebrating the long weekend with their partners and friends at Gleniffer on the NSW Mid North Coast when they began struggling in the Never Never River about 6.45pm on Sunday.

A friend of both men said they entered the water believing it was shallow because there was a “no diving” sign nearby.

“They were being responsible and cautious, stepping only into shallow water,” Sunita said.

“In an unforeseeable moment, a strong current surged and swept them away.

“What should have been an innocent moment turned into an unthinkable tragedy.”

Emergency services rushed to the scene and pulled the two men from the water, but were unable to save them.

Batra’s wife of four years, Sakshi Arora — who is seven months pregnant — was taken to hospital and treated for shock.

The couple moved to Australia from India in 2022, according to their social media profiles.

Their accounts show photos and videos of the pair together, including a baby shower celebration held just two weeks ago.

Nova Institute of Technology, where Khillan worked as a carpentry trainer, shared a tribute on social media, saying it was “with deep sadness” that it acknowledged his death.

“Sachin was a deeply valued member of our community, known for his dedication, professionalism, and the genuine care he showed his students and colleagues,” the institute wrote.

“His passion for teaching and the positive impact he had on so many lives will always be remembered.

“Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with Sachin’s family, friends, students, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Sachin. You will be deeply missed.”

In a joint statement to 7NEWS.com.au, the families of the two friends said both men had basic swimming skills and that events unfolded very quickly.

“We are sharing this message with heavy hearts as we grieve the heartbreaking loss of Sachin and Sahil,” the statement read.

“This tragedy has changed our lives forever.

“Through our grief, we want to urge everyone to please stay away from unknown or unfamiliar waters.

“Even when water looks calm and shallow, it can be extremely dangerous and change without warning.”

Kalkal said both men were the sole breadwinners for their elderly parents, who are suffering from critical medical conditions.

The families are hoping to repatriate the men’s bodies to India, Kalkal said, with a GoFundMe page established to support the process.

“We are raising the target so that any remaining funds can be sent to their elderly parents, who have lost their sons and must now live with this pain for the rest of their lives,” she said.

“Your kindness will help them survive this unimaginable grief and know they are not alone.”

Another man aged in his 30s who had been submerged in the water was also transported to hospital.

A crime scene has been established and a report will be prepared for the coroner.