How Sunita Williams took Indian culture to space, from the Bhagavad Gita to Diwali

Sunita Williams, the NASA astronaut, has always remained deeply connected to her Indian roots, even while journeying through the vastness of space. Born and raised in the United States, Williams has made it a point to bring her cultural heritage with her on every mission. From carrying a copy of the Bhagavad Gita aboard the International Space Station to celebrating Diwali in orbit, her actions have showcased her pride in her Indian heritage. Over the years, she has shared numerous heartfelt gestures that reflect her love for India. In this article, we explore five unforgettable moments where Sunita Williams brought her Indian culture to space.

Astronaut Williams found a way to bring a piece of her heritage to space during her mission aboard the Boeing Starliner by ensuring that samosas made the journey with her. A huge fan of Indian cuisine, she expressed her love for the flavors of home, saying, "Indian food! You can never get enough Indian food." It was more than just a snack for Williams—it was a personal touch, a way to stay connected to her culture while in the vastness of space.
NASA allows astronauts to choose their meals before launching, and for Williams, including her favorite Indian treat was a priority. By carrying samosas with her, she not only indulged in comfort food but also carried a meaningful part of India on her mission, showing how the simplest of pleasures can transcend the boundaries of Earth.
Astronaut Williams's most cherished memory was celebrating Diwali on the International Space Station. Reminiscing about the experience, she remembered her father, who had migrated to the US from India, fondly saying, "I specifically remember my father." Observing the festival of lights 260 miles above ground was a heartfelt gesture towards her father's impact and her strong affinity towards Indian culture.
Being in outer space made the celebration that much more meaningful, as it enabled her to celebrate Diwali and feel connected to her heritage despite how far she was from home. It was a strong reminder that her cultural heritage would remain bright, just like the lights of Diwali.
Astronaut Williams also brought spiritual meaning into space by carrying a copy of the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads. These sacred texts, which she often turned to for reflection and guidance, provided her with strength and insight during her mission. "These books were quite appropriate to carry to space," she shared, emphasizing how their teachings helped her maintain focus and clarity while far from home. In the isolation of space, these spiritual texts became a source of comfort and connection, offering a sense of peace and purpose. Williams’ choice to bring these books along reflects her deep-rooted spirituality and the importance of inner reflection, even in the vastness of space.
Throughout her career, astronaut Williams has been a powerful source of inspiration for countless young minds, particularly in India. Her achievements have encouraged many to dream big and pursue careers in science and space exploration. In 2013, she shared a heartfelt message with Indian children, saying, "The world is open to them. I am just like them." Her words resonated deeply, empowering children to believe in their own potential and to reach for the stars. Williams' journey has shown that with determination and hard work, anyone—regardless of background—can achieve great things. Through her example, she continues to inspire a new generation of aspiring scientists and explorers around the world, especially in India.
Astronaut Sunita Williams also carried a symbolic piece of her culture on her space missions—Lord Ganesha. "He had to come with me to space," she shared, emphasizing how Ganesha had always been a guiding presence in her life. This act was a deeply personal way for Williams to maintain a connection to her Indian heritage, even in the vastness of space. By bringing Lord Ganesha with her, she carried a piece of her spirituality and culture to the farthest reaches of the universe. Through such gestures, Williams has shown that the spirit of India transcends borders and distances, remaining with her in the most extraordinary environments, reminding her of her roots and beliefs.
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