India • Jun 26, 2025

'Yun Hi Chala Chal': Shukla's pre-launch ritual and space delicacies

Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from Lucknow, is set to launch for a mission to the International Space Station.
To keep things chill before takeoff, he listened to "Yun Hi Chala Chal" from Swades—a NASA ritual for good vibes.
He's also bringing along mango nectar and Indian sweets, giving a sweet shoutout to his hometown.

TL;DR

Shukla's journey from IAF to space

Inspired by the 1999 Kargil War, Shukla joined the Indian Air Force and racked up over 2,000 flying hours.
He later trained with ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission and earned an M.Tech in aerospace engineering.
He became the first Indian pilot picked for Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS—a proud moment for him and India.