Axiom-4 Launch Fuels Indian Pride: Yuvraj Singh Celebrates Shukla's 'Generational Moment'

The successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission has sparked immense pride throughout India. Former cricketer Yuvraj Singh voiced the nation's excitement, celebrating Shubhanshu Shukla's historic achievement.

Singh remarked, "As Group Captain Shukla lifted off into space, he carried with him not just the hopes of a nation, but the strength of every Indian who dares to dream big. This is a moment we’ll remember for generations."

This mission marks a significant return to human spaceflight for India, 41 years after Rakesh Sharma's pioneering journey.

Blasting off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket transported Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, alongside astronauts from Hungary, Poland, and the United States.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his congratulations, emphasizing that Shukla embodies the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. He posted on X, "We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland and the US. The Indian Astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is on the way to become the first Indian to go to International Space Station. He carries with him the wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. Wish him and other astronauts all the success!”

The astronauts are scheduled to spend 14 days aboard the International Space Station, where they will conduct over 60 scientific experiments.

Speaking from the spacecraft, named Grace, Shukla emotionally addressed the nation: “Namaskar, my dear countrymen. We have reached space after 41 years. It was a great ride.”

Orbiting Earth at 7.5 km per second, Shukla proudly displayed the Indian tricolour on his suit, symbolizing the nation's unified spirit. He hopes his mission will ignite curiosity and inspire a new generation of Indian space explorers.

“This isn’t just my journey -- it’s India’s journey into the future of human spaceflight,” he stated.

Shukla’s mission has already begun to redefine India's role in space exploration, inspiring a new wave of ambition and national pride.