• Source:JND
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Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, renowned for her contributions to space exploration, made history once again during her third space voyage aboard Boeing’s Starliner in June 2024. While embarking on this significant mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Williams carried a few treasured items that reflect her deep-rooted connection to Indian culture, including a copy of the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, a small murti (idol) of Lord Ganesh, and even homemade samosa. 

Williams, born in Euclid, Ohio, and raised in Needham, Massachusetts, has always cherished her Indian heritage. Williams is of Indian origin through her father, Deepak Pandya, who was from the Mehsana district of Gujarat. She has visited her ancestral village in Gujarat, Jhulasan, multiple times.  She has previously spoken about how carrying sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita helps her feel connected to her roots while navigating the vast expanse of space. “I really appreciate my Indian heritage and was glad I could bring part of it with me to space,” she mentioned in a 2013 news conference in New Delhi.

The Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture, is often associated with wisdom, guidance, and inner strength. Williams carried it to space not just as a token of faith but as an inspiring reminder of perseverance and duty. In addition, she brought a copy of the Upanishads, ancient philosophical texts that delve into the nature of existence, reinforcing her belief in self-discovery and introspection even in space.

Why Ganesh and Samosas?

In an interview with NDTV before her latest mission, Williams confirmed that she planned to carry a ‘lucky charm’—an idol of Lord Ganesh. Known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, Ganesh has always held a special place in her home, making it natural for Williams to bring his presence along on her journey beyond Earth.

As for the samosas, she humorously admitted that Indian food was a must-have, even in space. She had previously shared in 2013 that she made sure to bring samosas and other Indian delicacies aboard her earlier missions. Given the limited food options available on the ISS, carrying a taste of home provided a comforting and familiar experience.

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Legacy in Space Exploration

Williams has spent over 500 days in space and has conducted nine spacewalks. She also holds the record for the longest cumulative spacewalk time by a female astronaut, demonstrating her endurance and expertise in space missions.

By carrying symbols of her Indian heritage, Williams not only honours her roots but also shares them with her fellow astronauts aboard the ISS. Her journey reflects the spirit of diversity and cultural pride, inspiring people worldwide to embrace their traditions while pushing the boundaries of exploration.

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