As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla readies for his return from the International Space Station, his family in Lucknow prepares for a proud homecoming. With prayers and excitement, they await the moment he touches down on Earth.
Lucknow Family Offers Prayers for Safe Return
Shukla's father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, shared his emotions with ANI. The family visited a temple and offered prayers to Lord Shiva earlier in the day. He said they asked for blessings to ensure a safe landing for their son.
“We are ready to welcome him back,” he said. “It’s a proud moment and a matter of great fortune.” He added that the family never imagined their son would reach such heights. “We feel blessed to have a son like him,” he said.
Indian Astronaut's Farewell from Space: A Stirring Speech
On Sunday, a farewell ceremony was held aboard the ISS. Shukla delivered a powerful message during his final address in space. He quoted Rakesh Sharma’s iconic words, reminding the world of India’s presence in orbit.
In his Hindi speech, he said,
“Aaj ka Bharat space se mahatvakaanshi dikhta hai, Aaj ka Bharat space se nidar dikhta hai, Aaj ka Bharat confident dikhta hai, Aaj ka Bharat garv se poorn dikhta hai, Aur inhi sab kaarano ki wajah se Aaj main phir se keh sakta hoon—
Aaj ka Bharat abhi bhi saare jahaan se achha dikhta hai.”
(“Today’s India looks ambitious from space. Today’s India looks fearless, confident, and full of pride. And for all these reasons, I can say again—today’s India still looks better than the whole world.”
Mission Ends, But Legacy Just Beginning
Shukla thanked the people of India for their support. He expressed gratitude to ISRO, NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX. He said this journey was made possible by their tireless efforts and global collaboration.
The Ax-4 team includes Commander Peggy Whitson, ESA astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu. During their 18-day stay, the team performed scientific research and outreach activities aboard the orbiting lab.
Shukla reflected on the shared success of nations working together. He called the mission an example of what humanity can achieve through unity and vision.
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