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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, of Indian origin, has safely returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Her family expressed joy and relief at her safe return and is eagerly looking forward to a reunion filled with celebrations and home-cooked Indian meals.

Williams initially traveled to the ISS on June 5, 2023, aboard Boeing's Starliner on what was supposed to be a short mission to test the new spacecraft. However, technical issues with the Starliner forced an extended stay, leading NASA to reassign her to the SpaceX Crew-9 mission. She finally made her way back to Earth along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, landing off the coast of Florida.

Sunita William's sister-in-law,  Falguni Pandya, shared insights into the family's plan for the NASA astronaut after her homecoming. Pandya revealed that after spending nine months aboard the International Space Station, the family is eager to reunite with Williams for big get-togethers and feasts. She also hinted at a potential visit to India in 2025, where Williams hopes to reconnect with her roots and inspire the next generation said In an exclusive conversation with Republic Media Network,

"That moment was surreal," Falguni Pandya told NDTV, referring to the SpaceX Dragon spaceship, which brought back Ms Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore, making a soft splashdown off Florida's coast this morning.

Family Plans Traditional Indian Feast

While discussions about Williams’ return to India are still in the early stages, one thing is certain—she will be enjoying her favourite dishes upon arrival. "Deepak Kaka, Sunny’s father, was a vegetarian, and Aunt Bani mastered the art of making incredible Gujarati food," Pandya shared. "Her Dal Dhokli is the best in the world, and since it’s Sunny’s favourite, it will definitely be part of the feast!" she told Republic Media Network.

"No one can match her mother’s cooking, so we’ll stick to traditional Indian cuisine and look forward to a memorable meal together."

Speaking to NDTV from a temple after Williams left for home, Pandya also expressed her gratitude to God for ensuring everything went smoothly. She jokingly added that since Sunita Williams was the first astronaut to take samosas to space, they would be celebrating her return with a 'samosa party.'

ALSO READ: Nasa Astronaut Sunita Williams 10 Motivational And Inspiring Quotes On Success, Dream And Knowledge

PM Modi Invites Sunita Williams to India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended a special invitation to Williams, expressing pride in her achievements. In a letter, he recalled discussing her work with NASA astronauts and emphasized how 1.4 billion Indians admire her perseverance and contributions.

In a letter dated March 1, shared by Union Minister Jitendra Singh on X yesterday, PM Modi mentioned that he had inquired about Williams well-being during his meetings with both former US Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden on his visits to the US.

The letter was made public just hours after Williams and her colleague, Butch Wilmore, undocked from the ISS for their 17-hour journey home.

Recalling a recent conversation with former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino in Delhi, PM Modi said her name had come up during their discussion.

"We spoke about how proud we are of you and your incredible work. After that conversation, I couldn’t resist writing to you," he stated.

He further added, "1.4 billion Indians have always taken immense pride in your achievements. Your recent endeavours once again highlight your inspiring determination and perseverance."