Lucknow, April 15 : Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla returned to his alma mater, City Montessori School (CMS), today, interacting with thousands of students at a special event marking the International Day of Human Space Flight at the World Unity Convention Centre, where he was also honoured for receiving the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award from the President of India.
Addressing a hybrid gathering of students from 22 CMS campuses-both in person and online-Shukla fondly recalled his school days at CMS. Thereafter, he spoke about his journey to space and, through a PowerPoint presentation, explained in detail the challenges faced during space missions and his experiences of living aboard the International Space Station. He remarked that traveling to space is an incredible experience, where the entire planet Earth appears like one's own home. Students also engaged in an interactive question-and-answer session with him, satisfying their curiosity.
Earlier, CMS Founder-Director Dr. Bharti Gandhi warmly welcomed the astronaut, calling his achievement "a matter of immense pride for the nation and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come." She reiterated CMS's commitment to nurturing global citizens equipped to contribute meaningfully to humanity.
A panel discussion featured Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Ms Neha Jain, IAS, Principal Secretary, IT & Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Dr Arun Mohan Sherry, Director, IIIT Lucknow; Prof Nitin Saxena, Professor, IIT Kanpur; and Prof Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, Manager, CMS. Speakers highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary learning and innovation in science and technology.
During the discussion, Dr. Asif Siddiqui emphasized that this is the right time for Indian students to move forward in the fields of science and space through their talent and knowledge. Prof. Nitin Saxena noted that while AI is gaining prominence, students should place greater trust in their own intellect and understanding alongside it. Dr. Arun Mohan Sherry inspired students to become good observers and to always maintain a spirit of learning. Similarly, Ms. Neha Jain stated that it is natural for students to feel inspired by a personality like Shubhanshu Shukla.
Moderating the session, Prof Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, Manager, CMS, remarked that beyond discovery, Space exploration is about shaping a sustainable future for humanity. She highlighted CMS's efforts to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and a global outlook among students.
The event was part of 'Space Festival-2026', a multi-campus initiative aimed at promoting interest in space science among students.
Shubhanshu Shukla, a former CMS student, spent 18 days aboard the International Space Station during his mission in summer 2025.