Smile from Space: Shubhanshu Shukla’s Selfie from ISS with Hungarian Crewmate Wins Internet

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla

A selfie from space is now winning hearts online. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the Indian Air Force pilot, shared his first photo from the International Space Station (ISS). The image shows Shukla smiling alongside Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu inside the Cupola module.

A Proud Moment for India in Space
Shukla made history last Thursday by becoming the first Indian to reach the ISS. He is now the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma’s mission in 1984. At 39 years old, he also becomes the 634th astronaut to travel beyond Earth.

The Lucknow-born pilot is part of the Axiom Mission 4 crew. Serving as mission pilot, he launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket on 25 June from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre. After a 28-hour journey, the Dragon capsule docked smoothly with the ISS.

📸 Gp Capt Shubhanshu Shukla's selfie in space with his Hungarian crewmate Tibor Kapu! 🇮🇳🇭🇺

In this picture, they can be seen inside the Cupola module on board the ISS! ✨️ pic.twitter.com/S6im4PD8fh

— ISRO Spaceflight (@ISROSpaceflight) June 29, 2025

Warm hugs and handshakes greeted the crew as they stepped aboard. Shukla proudly ended his first public message from space with, “Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”

PM Modi Hails Shukla’s Historic Journey
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video call with Shukla on Saturday. He congratulated the pilot and said his mission marks a new era for India’s space ambitions.

I had a wonderful conversation with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as he shared his experiences from the International Space Station. Watch the special interaction! https://t.co/MoMR5ozRRA

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— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 28, 2025

The Prime Minister praised Shukla for making the nation proud. “Though you are farthest from Indian soil, you remain closest to the hearts of every Indian,” he said.

Shukla’s mission has not only sparked national pride but also inspired millions who now follow his space journey closely.