The Song That Launched a Journey
As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepared for his maiden voyage into space, one song echoed in his mind — Vande Mataram. Far beyond just a melody, this Hindi anthem fueled his spirit on the way to the Kennedy Space Center’s launch pad 39-A, the very place where Neil Armstrong began his legendary moon mission. Translated loosely, the song celebrates India as "not a dream but a celebration," with victory coursing through the veins of its people.
Vande Mataram: A Modern Tribute to Valor
Featured prominently in the 2024 film Fighter, starring Hrithik Roshan, the song pays homage to the bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism of India’s armed forces. With vocals by Vishal Dadlani and lyrics originally penned by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and later remixed by Kumaar, the anthem blends tradition and contemporary vigor.
Music’s Role in Space Missions
NASA has a long-standing tradition allowing astronauts to choose their music as they ride out to the launch pad. It’s not just a personal touch; music acts as a vital tool to calm nerves, sharpen focus, and maintain morale amid intense stress. For Shubhanshu Shukla, Vande Mataram served as a source of motivation and a symbolic connection to home.
Axiom Mission 4: The Next Step in Private Space Travel
Scheduled for June 25, 2025, at 12:01 PM IST, Axiom Mission 4 marks the latest private astronaut trip to the International Space Station. Alongside Shukla, the crew includes Dr. Peggy Whitson from the U.S., mission commander; Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland; and Tibor Kapu from Hungary as mission specialists. Shukla’s role: pilot.
This mission carries historical weight — launching from a pad once used by Apollo 11 — and promises to push the boundaries of private space exploration even further. Dr. Whitson praised Shukla’s sharp intellect, calling him "wicked smart," underscoring the caliber of this international team.
Meet Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla
Born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Shukla is the youngest among India’s Gaganyaan-trained astronauts. A graduate of the National Defence Academy, he joined the Indian Air Force in 2006 as a fighter pilot. With roughly 2,000 flying hours logged on various aircraft—including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32—he brings an impressive background to his space endeavors.
An accomplished Fighter Combat Leader and test pilot, Shukla’s preparation included yoga as part of his rigorous training, equipping him mentally and physically for the demanding Launch aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, which boasts a 99.6% safety record and is nearing its 500th flight.
Lyrics that Inspire – ‘Vande Mataram’
Original Hindi excerpt:
Khwaab nahi ek jashn hai Bharat
Rag-rag mein hai jeet ki aadat
Aisa hunar dushman bhi salaami de
Tu suraj, hum tere ujaale
Tujh se juda nahi hone waale
Akhir tak hum safar pe honge ki
Jai-hind jo nas-nas mein hai
Har baazi phir bas mein hai
Zid thaan ke hindustan bole
Sujalam-sufalam malayajashitlam
Shasyashyamalam, vande maataram
English translation:
No dream, but a celebration –
In every vein of India, victory is the habit.
Such is our prowess that even the enemy salutes us.
You're the sun, we are your radiance;
We're never going to part from you.
Till the end, we'll journey ahead –
Jai Hind lives in every pulse;
Every challenge is within our grasp.
With firm resolve, Hindustan shall proclaim:
"Vande Mataram: with pure waters, fertile fields,
Cool breezes and verdant growth."
The Journey Ahead
As Group Captain Shukla embarks on this historic mission, the stirring anthem that accompanied him reflects the heart of his homeland — resilient, victorious, and united. Vande Mataram is not just a song; it is the spirit propelling India’s explorers beyond horizons previously thought unreachable.
