Indians across the world are joining in pride and exhilaration as India accomplished a historic feat by becoming the first nation to execute a soft landing of a spacecraft on the unexplored South Pole of the moon on August 23. This remarkable achievement marks India as the fourth country to successfully reach the lunar surface.
The lunar lander, named Vikram, along with the rover Pragyan, both part of India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission, touched down on the moon at around 6 p.m. local time. The event was witnessed by approximately 70 million people on the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)’s YouTube page.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath exclaimed, “We have achieved soft landing on the moon,” which was met with enthusiastic applause in the control room. He proudly declared, “India is on the moon.”
This achievement has ignited immense pride in the 1.4 billion-strong nation, fostering its aspiration to become a prominent space pioneer and reinforce its stature as a global power.
The successful execution of Chandrayaan-3’s mission has brought unity and positivity to a nation grappling with internal challenges. Amid sectarian violence and societal discord, this moment of scientific triumph offers hope and solidarity for millions rejoicing in the success of ISRO.
The event was commemorated with prayers at Hindu temples, mosques, and Sikh gurdwaras, showcasing the significance of this achievement across various communities. Schools across the country organized live screenings of the mission, with children waving the Indian flag jubilantly as the spacecraft landed on the moon.
The accomplishment prompted celebratory actions, with locals bursting firecrackers, distributing sweets, and dancing exuberantly. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research in New Delhi reverberated with chants of “victory to India!”
Celebrities, politicians, and global figures have all extended their admiration for India’s achievements. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan congratulated the scientists and engineers behind the mission, while cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar praised the hardworking individuals who contributed to this success. European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also acknowledged India’s advancement in space exploration.
The lunar landing signifies India’s monumental progress in its space endeavors. From its humble beginnings transporting spaceship components on bicycles, the country has transitioned to successfully orbiting the moon and Mars, all while launching numerous satellites at significantly lower costs than other space-faring nations.
This success resonates beyond the realm of space exploration, reflecting India’s burgeoning influence on the global stage. Amid its complex relationships with other major powers, India has emerged as an influential player in international politics, capturing the world’s attention with its accomplishments.
The triumph of Chandrayaan-3 not only heralds a scientific breakthrough but also symbolizes India’s ascendancy in the modern world order. As the nation looks forward to its upcoming human space flight missions and other ambitious projects, its indomitable spirit continues to inspire admiration worldwide.
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