India’s journey in space exploration reached a historic milestone as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian astronaut to set foot on the International Space Station (ISS). During a heartfelt video interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shukla shared his awe at the view from above, saying, “India looks grand and bigger from space than it does on the map.” His words echoed the pride and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.
Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket as part of the Axiom-4 mission from the Kennedy Space Center, Shukla and his three international crewmates successfully docked with the ISS on June 26 after a 28-hour journey. Commanded by veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson, the mission represents a major step forward in India's human spaceflight ambitions, with Shukla serving as the mission pilot.
Prime Minister Modi, beaming with national pride, told Shukla, “You may be the farthest from Indian soil, but you are the closest to the hearts of its people. Even your name carries the word ‘Shubh’ (auspicious), and your journey is a Shubh Aarambh—a hopeful beginning—for the youth of our nation.” In a light-hearted exchange, Modi also asked about the Indian delicacies Shukla had brought aboard. The astronaut cheerfully responded that he shared gajar ka halwa, moong dal halwa, and aam ras with his international crewmates, offering them a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage.
Shukla, now the 634th human in space and the first Indian to enter the ISS, described the experience of viewing Earth from orbit as “wonderful.” He said he carried not only the Indian flag but also the dreams, pride, and excitement of every Indian into space.
This milestone is more than a personal triumph—it’s a symbolic leap for India’s space program and an inspiring beacon for future generations aiming to explore the final frontier.