Upon his return from space, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla reflected on his journey, recalling his shyness as a child and his admiration for Rakesh Sharma’s pioneering spaceflight in 1984. Shukla, who is only the second Indian to have traveled to space, spoke to students, sharing his experiences and inspiring them. The event, held at the Air Force Auditorium in Delhi’s Subroto Park, also included a recognition ceremony led by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh for Shukla and the other astronauts chosen for the Gaganyaan mission.
Shubhanshu Shukla, known affectionately as ‘Shuks,’ discussed his path into the Indian Air Force (IAF), along with the challenges and accomplishments of his Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). He revealed his introverted nature in childhood, fueled by stories of Rakesh Sharma’s historic voyage.
Shukla attributed his personal growth to the Indian Air Force, recognizing the profound impact it had on shaping his life. He noted the overwhelming response he received, with people eager to connect with him and offer their praise.
The event also highlighted Shukla’s family-oriented personality, as he ensured that his wife and son remained close to him, even amidst the excitement of the crowd seeking autographs and selfies.
Born and raised in Lucknow, 40-year-old Shubhanshu Shukla came from a non-military background. He entered the Indian Air Force, having not initially planned to do so. Shukla recounted how filling out a form that a friend had bought set him on the path to the National Defence Academy (NDA).
He emphasized that Air Force training equips individuals to overcome life’s obstacles and achieve success. Shukla was the first Indian astronaut on the Axiom-4 mission. He returned to Earth with his crew after a 20-day mission in space.
He met with Rajnath Singh, discussing his space travels, experiments, and the Gaganyaan program. He humorously described the difficulties he encountered in microgravity, along with the experience of observing sixteen sunrises and sunsets each day.
Shukla shared a video of the Earth from space, showing parts of India. He called it an unforgettable view. His mission contributed to India’s space aspirations, paving the way for the Gaganyaan mission and the development of an Indian space center.
Shukla highlighted the Axiom-4 mission as a crucial achievement for India, coming at a significant time. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the mission’s lessons in future endeavors.
He expressed happiness at the public’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the need to sustain it. Shukla underscored the aim of launching an Indian astronaut from Indian soil aboard an Indian rocket.
Shukla encouraged Indian youth to view space exploration as a significant opportunity. He urged them to remain curious and pursue their dreams.
Over 100 students from Delhi Air Force schools attended the event. Jay Vashisht, an 11th-grade student, shared his inspiration, aspiring to join the Air Force and become a fighter pilot. His father is a veteran of the Indian Air Force. Ashwina Tripathi, another student, shared her inspiration from meeting Shukla.