How Did School Teachers Remember Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla?
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Synopsis
As Shubhanshu Shukla makes history as the first Indian to reach the ISS, his teachers in Lucknow reflect on their cherished memories of him. Discover how this focused boy transformed into an astronaut, inspiring everyone around him.
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla is the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS.
- He launched aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft during the Axiom Mission 4.
- Teachers remember him as a focused and disciplined student.
- His journey inspires future generations of Indian youth.
- The docking with the ISS is a historic milestone for India.
Lucknow, June 26 (NationPress) As IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian to enter the International Space Station (ISS), his former teachers in Lucknow are filled with immense pride. They fondly reminisce about the quiet and focused boy who once navigated their school corridors, cherishing memories of his early years while praying for his safety and success among the stars.
Shukla launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named ‘Grace’ as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), making him the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma, who ventured into space in 1984.
The spacecraft successfully docked with the ISS’s Harmony module at 6:31 a.m. ET (4:00 p.m. IST) today, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey into space.
IANS spoke with several of Shukla’s primary school teachers, who expressed their pride and admiration.
Sunita Pandey, one of Shukla’s teachers, shared, “I frequently interacted with him. He was incredibly focused and disciplined. While embarking on a space journey may not have been his initial aspiration, I believe it developed during his time at the NDA. He also excelled at football. I am proud to witness how far he has come.”
Sweta Saxena, who taught him during his formative years, noted that he consistently ranked among the top 10 in his class, with Science being his favorite subject, which led him to choose Physics, Chemistry, and Maths (PCM) for Class 12.
“He balanced both academics and sports. I sincerely wish him ongoing success.”
Archana Agarwal, who taught Shubhanshu from Classes 6 to 8, remembered him as an introverted yet highly creative student.
“He was a dreamer and a disciplined child. Sports truly thrilled him. It’s remarkable to see someone like him reach space. I am extremely proud.”
Aparna, another teacher, recounted, “He was an all-rounder in primary school - quite shy, yet he participated in everything. He visited the school last year after being selected for the Axiom mission. We even discussed strategies to enhance teaching. I am overwhelmed to see him reach for the stars.”
Born in Lucknow, Shukla launched into space at 2:31 a.m. EDT (12:00 noon IST) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, aboard the Falcon 9 rocket.
The Ax-4 crew includes Commander Peggy Whitson (USA), Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla (India), and Mission Specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wisniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary).
India now rejoices not just in the success of an astronaut, but in the inspiring narrative of a small-town boy whose teachers always believed he was destined for greatness.
Point of View
It's evident that Shubhanshu Shukla's journey is a testament to the potential of Indian youth. His achievement not only highlights individual excellence but also reflects the growing capabilities of India's space program. Such stories inspire the nation and represent hope for future generations.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shubhanshu Shukla?
Shubhanshu Shukla is an IAF Group Captain and the first Indian astronaut to enter the International Space Station (ISS).
What mission did Shubhanshu Shukla participate in?
He participated in the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
When did Shubhanshu Shukla launch into space?
He launched into space on June 26, 2023, at 2:31 a.m. EDT.
What did his teachers say about him?
His teachers praised his discipline, focus, and academic achievements, noting his dreams developed during his time at the NDA.
What is the significance of his journey?
Shubhanshu's journey symbolizes the aspirations of Indian youth and the advancements in India's space exploration.
