'As if he was born again': Shubhanshu's family responds to his return

As the Dragon capsule splashed down into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California, 13,000 km from Shubhanshu's hometown of Lucknow, his mother's hands trembled. Her hands were clasped in prayer. It was a new life for the family. His parents, Asha and Shambhu Dayal Shukla, who watched the landing live, were breathless.

“My heart stopped beating,” Asha said, overcome with emotion. “I cried. For me, it was like he was born again. “This is my last call from the ISS… I’m coming back. I’ll see you all soon,” he said before returning. We didn’t sleep at all. Not even for a moment,” said his father, Shambhu Dayal.

Shubhanshu's sister, Suchi Shukla, a tech professional, recalled the atmosphere at home - a curious mix of hope and emotion. "We were praying. We lit lamps. Watching my brother complete this historic mission, I understood the emotional weight behind scientific progress."

Dreaming big

Students, teachers and alumni gathered to watch the landing live at CMS, where Shubhanshu studied. The initially nervous silence gave way to applause, cheers and tears of joy when Shubhanshu returned. "We have always said that our students should dream of the stars. Today, one of them returned from there and brought the stars home," said the CMS principal.

A felicitation programme will be organised for Shubhanshu when he arrives in India.

My son has returned safely. Thank God and everyone. I can't find words to express my happiness. I am proud. I was scared at first. Now I am so happy. The next generation will get inspiration from Shubhanshu

-Asha Shukla,

Shubhanshu's mother

I want to see my son in person as soon as possible. I had prayed for his safe return. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh had blessed Shubhanshu and wished us well. His return will be recorded in history. Proud.

-Shambhu Dayal Shukla,

Shubhanshu's father

Shubhanshu has returned safely. I am happy and at peace

-Suchi Mishra,

Shubhanshu's sister