The Legacy of Rakesh Sharma: India’s First Astronaut
In 1984, Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma embarked on a journey that would etch his name in the annals of Indian history. As the first Indian to travel to space, his adventure beyond earth’s atmosphere ignited the imagination of a nation and inspired a myriad of young minds. Fast forward to the present, social media and internet users are rekindling the memory of Sharma’s space odyssey, especially his iconic dialogue with then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
A Memorable Exchange from Space
During a video conference with Mrs. Indira Gandhi from aboard the Soyuz spacecraft, Rakesh Sharma was asked, “Upar se Bharat kaisa dikhta hai aapko” (How does India look from space?). Without missing a beat, he replied: “Saare jahan se accha” (Better than the whole world), a response that not only resonated with countless Indians but became a beacon of national pride.
Meet Rakesh Sharma. 1st Indian who went to space in 1984.
When he spoke to Mrs Gandhi in a conference from aboard the Soyuz she asked, "Upar se Bharat kaisa dikhta hai aapko” (How does India look like from space?)
He replied: saare jahan se accha. (Better than the whole world)… pic.twitter.com/S9eHsOxn2y
— Cow Momma (@Cow__Momma) February 28, 2024
A Symbol of Pride
Photographs of Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma alongside Wing Commander Ravish Malhotra, draped in their space suits, have remained a significant part of India’s space exploration narrative. Sharma’s voyage made India the 14th nation in the world to send a human into outer space, a monumental achievement during that period.
Most Indians grew up seeing this iconic photo of Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma & Wing Commander Ravish Malhotra.
Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to go to space in April 1984, making India the 14th nation in the world to send a man into outer space.
“Saare Jahan Se Accha.” https://t.co/AUxXG2OcEc pic.twitter.com/hGG5n3ZiCp
— Advaid അദ്വൈത് (@Advaidism) February 28, 2024
Remembering a Legend
Yet, it’s intriguing to note the recent exchange on social media platforms, where users point out an overlooked appreciation for Sharma’s contributions, especially in the context of discussions around India’s advancements in space exploration. Notably, a tweet directed at Anand Mahindra, a prominent Indian industrialist known for his keen interest in space, criticized the apparent oversight of Sharma’s legacy in favor of American astronauts.
Sir, Rakesh sharma bhi Indian astronaut the. Lekin aapki ruchi shayad American astronauts mein jyada rahi hai. pic.twitter.com/fTJeaVT0t8
— Rofl Gandhi 2.0 🏹 (@RoflGandhi_) February 28, 2024
Gaganyaan Mission and Rakesh Sharma’s Enduring Influence
The upcoming Gaganyaan mission, aimed at sending Indian astronauts to space, revives interest in Sharma’s pioneering journey. The four astronauts selected for this mission have undergone extensive training at Russia’s Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, the same facility where Sharma prepared for his 1984 space voyage. This connection underscores the deep roots and continued importance of Sharma’s accomplishments in the realm of Indian space exploration.
Modern Tributes and Acknowledgments
Amidst the excitement surrounding India’s future space missions, there’s a renewed appreciation for Rakesh Sharma’s historical space flight. On National Science Day, Sharma was celebrated for his contributions to space exploration and his vision of global harmony, indicating the lasting impact of his journey on India’s collective consciousness.
In the face of recent discussions and remembrances, Sharma’s story highlights the challenges of preserving the legacy of pioneers in the fleeting world of social media memory. It serves as a reminder of India’s position in the global space exploration landscape and the individuals who laid the groundwork for future generations. Rakesh Sharma’s adventure beyond the stars remains a testament to human curiosity, national pride, and the indomitable spirit to explore the unknown.
As India prepares to undertake the Gaganyaan mission, Sharma’s legacy stands as a beacon, illuminating the path for the ‘Nav Sitaras’ (new stars) of Indian space exploration. The heartwarming responses and reflections sparked by revisiting Sharma’s dialogues and achievements bear witness to a nation that cherishes its heroes and continues to dream big, with its eyes set on the stars.
also read:India’s Leap into the Cosmos: Meet the Astronauts of the Gaganyaan Mission
Divya 
Mehek