As the country gears up for a major milestone in its space journey, the family of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared their emotional response to a historic and heartwarming moment. During a grand ceremony held in Trivandrum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi awarded astronaut wings to four Indian astronauts, including Shubhanshu Shukla, marking a monumental step for India’s space ambitions.
Shubhanshu's father, overwhelmed with pride, vividly recalled the moment PM Modi interacted with their family. “PM Modi congratulated us and said, ‘Your kids are like diamonds,’” he shared, describing the excitement and emotion that filled the room. The ceremony wasn't just a national celebration; it was a deeply personal victory for families like theirs who have supported these astronauts from day one.
Shubhanshu's path to becoming an astronaut came as a surprise to his family. His father revealed that the family only learned about his desire to join the NDA after he had already cleared the exam. “It’s a great feeling. Every father dreams of seeing his child surpass him, and Shubhanshu has done just that,” he said.
His mother, expressing the typical blend of pride and motherly worry, added, “He’s still a child to me. But it’s a proud moment.” She also remembered his calm words a day before the ceremony: “Everything is good and I am very excited about going to space.”
His sister, Nidhi Mishra, reminisced about how her brother transformed through sheer willpower and perseverance. “From a regular boy to a national hero it’s a proud moment for all of us,” she said.
As India prepares to send Shubhanshu Shukla on a space mission set to launch on June 10, 2025, his family’s story is one of quiet strength, belief, and unwavering support. Their pride echoes the aspirations of countless Indian families whose children dream of reaching for the stars quite literally. This moment not only represents a leap for Indian space science but also the culmination of personal dreams, sacrifices, and the silent courage of the families behind each hero.
