Astronaut and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla received a hero's welcome at City Montessori School (CMS) in Lucknow on Monday. Students, faculty, and dignitaries gathered to honor his achievements and dedication to the nation. The event served as an inspiration to young minds, celebrating Shukla's extraordinary journey and service.

Shukla, an alumnus of CMS, was greeted with garlands, flower petals, greeting placards, and loud slogans. Many students were spotted sporting astronaut jackets, demonstrating their admiration for him. Despite mild rain and humid conditions, the students eagerly awaited the arrival of the national hero from the airport to the school's Gomti Nagar Extension branch. Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Brajesh Pathak, welcomed Shukla with a bouquet at the airport.

Shukla, accompanied by his wife Kamna, son Priyansh, parents, and school officials, was welcomed on top of a specially decorated van. He was greeted by the enthusiastic welcome team. During the procession, Shukla smiled and waved, warmly greeting children and residents gathered on both sides of the road. The Triveni Nagar area, where Shukla's residence is located, was also decorated to welcome him.

At the felicitation ceremony, students enacted the 'Story of Shux,' which moved his family members to tears. A video showcasing his journey was also screened, followed by the felicitation of Shukla, his wife, and son. Surprise video messages from India's first man in space, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, and Gaganyaan astronaut Group Captain Angad Pratap were played, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

In his address, Shukla expressed his gratitude and amazement at the enthusiasm displayed by everyone. He recalled his days at CMS and encouraged the students to "dream big and don't be afraid of failure, as it is a process of learning". Shukla also interacted with the students, answering their questions and sharing experiences from his space journey. One student asked how to become an astronaut, to which Shukla responded by encouraging everyone to aspire. He also referenced the vision to land on the moon by 2040 and said that it would be one of them who would be setting foot there.

Shukla emphasized the importance of perseverance and encouraged the students to work hard. He highlighted the significance of the enthusiasm generated by the mission and its role in taking India's space journey forward. Shukla noted that the mission had opened the door for the country to study microgravity.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath congratulated Shukla on his achievements and wished him continued success. He also discussed how such missions could benefit the common man through early warning systems and better weather predictions. Adityanath announced a scholarship for students pursuing higher education in space technology and thanked the people of Lucknow for the grand welcome they gave Shukla.

Shukla's visit to City Montessori School served as a momentous occasion, inspiring students and reaffirming the importance of perseverance, স্বপ্ন, and национальный дух.