Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India's second astronaut, experienced his own "Interstellar" moment as he embarked on the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Before his historic launch aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, Shukla curated a playlist to set the tone for his journey. Among the chosen tracks, one stood out: "Yun Hi Chala Chal" from the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "Swades."
The selection of "Yun Hi Chala Chal" is particularly poignant. The song, composed by A.R. Rahman with lyrics by Javed Akhtar, is known for its uplifting and adventurous spirit. Featuring Shah Rukh Khan, the song encapsulates a journey of self-discovery and a connection to one's roots. In "Swades," Khan plays a NASA scientist who returns to India to find his childhood nanny, leading him on an emotional and transformative journey through rural India. This theme of exploration and homecoming resonates deeply with Shukla's mission, bridging his Indian heritage with his journey into space.
Shukla's choice highlights the power of music to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. The song served as a motivational anthem, echoing themes of perseverance and national pride as he embarked on this groundbreaking mission. The Axiom-4 mission marks a significant moment for India, representing a renewed presence in space after 41 years. Shukla acknowledged this significance in his post-launch address, expressing his pride in carrying the Indian flag on his shoulder and emphasizing that his journey marks the beginning of India's Human Space Program.
The Axiom-4 mission's launch day playlist reflects determination, wonder, and cultural diversity. Alongside "Yun Hi Chala Chal," the playlist includes "Thunder" by Imagine Dragons, symbolizing ambition and resilience. "Supermoce," a dynamic track, captures the energy and focus of the mission, while "Búvóhely," a Hungarian piece, offers a moment of calm and introspection. These selections mirror Shukla's personal journey from Earth to the stars, blending Bollywood inspiration with international musical expressions.
The successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission signifies a new chapter in space exploration and international collaboration. The docking procedure with the ISS is expected to take approximately 28 hours, during which the spacecraft will connect to the orbiting laboratory. The crew, including Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, Mission Specialist Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu, will spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS conducting various scientific, outreach, and commercial activities.
