Is it a proud moment for the family of astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla's journey marks a historic return to space for India.
- He is the second Indian to travel into space after Rakesh Sharma.
- The Axiom-4 mission includes an international crew.
- His family celebrated this historic moment with pride and joy.
- Shukla aims to inspire the youth of India through his achievement.
New Delhi, June 25 (NationPress) As Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla ascended into space on Wednesday as part of the Axiom-4 mission, his family back home rejoiced with tears of joy, pride, and deep emotion.
"This is not merely his triumph; it is a proud moment for our entire family," his sister expressed to IANS.
The family convened early to witness the momentous lift-off that signified India's return to space after a 41-year hiatus.
Shukla is the second Indian to venture into space following Rakesh Sharma's 1984 expedition and is the first to arrive at the International Space Station (ISS).
"We are truly delighted. This is monumental for us. Securing this opportunity means everything to our family," Shukla's sister remarked.
His mother was also overwhelmed with happiness.
"Yes, it’s a significant day. I have been anticipating this for a month. Today marks my child's flight. I have bestowed my blessings upon him, and he has been showering me with his since morning," she shared with IANS.
His father expressed gratitude to God for facilitating this mission.
"I am extremely happy. I thank God for the successful mission of my son. I pray for his safety and the mission's success," he stated.
Earlier that day, Shukla, speaking from the spacecraft, mentioned, "This is not my journey alone. I am carrying the Indian flag with me -- this is the journey of India's human space flight."
His message, shared on X just before the launch, declared: "India is returning to space. Jai Hind."
Launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, the Axiom-4 mission features an international crew, with Shukla serving as the pilot.
He is joined by Commander Peggy Whitson from the US, along with mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.