As India proudly watched Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla enter space, a quiet story of strength unfolded back home. His wife, Dr Kamna Shukla, stood as his strongest pillar through this historic journey.
The Indian Air Force officer became the first Indian to board the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom Mission 4. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre on 25 June. Shukla is now the second Indian in space, following Rakesh Sharma’s iconic 1984 mission.
A Wife’s Role Behind the Mission
Ahead of the launch, Shukla’s mother, Asha Shukla, shared her pride with the media. She credited much of her son’s success to his wife Kamna, saying, “He has all the support from our daughter-in-law. This wouldn’t have been possible without her. She has played the biggest role.”
Dr Kamna Shukla works as a dentist in Lucknow. She is also the mother of their six-year-old son. Her story with Shubhanshu began in primary school, where they met as classmates and became best friends.
Speaking to The Times of India, Kamna recalled, “We’ve studied together since Class 3. I’ve known him as Gunjan, the quiet, shy boy, who is now inspiring so many.”
The couple’s bond has survived long distances, missed celebrations and years of sacrifice. Kamna admitted how tough it was when Shubhanshu missed moments in their son’s early years. But she admired his focus, comparing his determination to Arjuna from the Mahabharata.
A Touching Tribute Before Lift-Off
Before heading to space, Shubhanshu penned an emotional message for Kamna on Instagram. In his post, he thanked everyone involved in the mission and his loved ones for their constant support.
“Sometimes your close ones make sacrifices you don’t even fully understand,” he wrote. “But they do it out of love for you.”
To Kamna, he added, “Special thanks to @kamnashubha for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you, none of this was possible — but more importantly, none of this would matter.”
Shukla ended the post with a message that resonated deeply. “No one travels to space alone. We do so on the shoulders of so many more. I feel grateful to each and every one of you. THANK YOU.”
His words have since touched many online, reminding the world that behind every space hero stands a family making silent sacrifices.
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