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Today is the birthday of Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian to step into space. Today i.e. on 13 January, is his birthday. Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian to travel to space. He was born on 13 January 1949. Rakesh Sharma holds a special place in Indian history as the first Indian astronaut. His space journey was a source of immense pride for the country.
When did he go to space?
Born on 13 January 1949 in Patiala, Punjab, Rakesh Sharma is a former Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot and astronaut who has the distinction of being the first Indian to travel to space. He completed a mission of 7 days, 21 hours and 40 minutes in 1984. His historic journey on the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11 in 1984 not only made him a national hero but also demonstrated India’s capabilities on the global stage in space exploration.
In a memorable conversation with then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during the mission, when asked how India looked from space, Sharma replied, “Saare Jahan Se Achcha” (better than the whole world). This patriotic sentiment resonated with millions of Indians and is etched in the country’s collective memory.
Retired as Wing Commander in Indian Air Force
Let us tell you that Rakesh Sharma has also been a part of the Indian Air Force. He retired as Wing Commander in the Indian Air Force. After retirement, Sharma worked with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on aerospace development projects. Rakesh Sharma’s space journey was a source of immense pride for India, inspiring future generations to dream big and pursue careers in science and space exploration.
