Sunita Williams, an American astronaut of Indian origin, has set new milestones in the field of space science with her exceptional courage and dedication. Especially now, after achieving yet another milestone, she returned to Earth in the early hours of March 19. Her achievements are not only an inspiration for young minds interested in science but also a testament to the fact that limitations exist only in our minds.
Sunita was born on September 19, 1965, in Ohio, USA. Her father, Deepak Pandya, was of Indian origin and hailed from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, while her mother, Bonnie Pandya, was of Slovenian descent. Sunita earned a bachelor’s degree in Physical Science from the United States Naval Academy in 1987 and a master’s degree in Engineering Management from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1995. This educational background paved the way for her selection in NASA’s astronaut program.
At the beginning of her career, Sunita served as an Aviation Officer in the United States Navy and participated in several crucial missions as a helicopter pilot. In 1998, she was selected for NASA’s astronaut program, and after rigorous training, she embarked on her first space mission in 2006. During this mission, she set a record for the longest duration spent in space by a female astronaut, staying in space for 195 days. Additionally, she conducted four spacewalks, spending a total of 29 hours and 17 minutes outside the spacecraft, setting a record for the longest cumulative spacewalk time by a female astronaut at the time.
Sunita Williams’ achievements are a matter of great pride, especially in India. Her translated interview has been incorporated into the Indian education system to inspire students. Notably, a Hindi translation of Sunita Williams’ interview has been included in the Hindi textbook (Second Language) for ninth-grade students in Telangana. This translation was done by the renowned writer Dr. Suresh Kumar Mishra ‘Uratrupt,’ who is also the author and coordinator of this textbook. His vision and literary prowess have made it possible for students to engage with Sunita’s inspiring story.
Dr. Suresh Kumar Mishra ‘Uratrupt,’ who possesses rare NASA-related materials, has contributed significantly to education through his literary skills and foresight. His translation style has brought Sunita Williams’ story to Hindi-speaking students, encouraging them to explore space science and research. His initiative ensures that the younger generation is motivated by the stories of the world’s great scientists and innovators, inspiring them to dream big and work towards their goals.
Sunita Williams’ story teaches us that with dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief, we can achieve any goal. Her accomplishments are not just significant in the field of science but also highlight how women of Indian origin can establish their identity on the global stage. Including her story in the curriculum is a commendable step that will encourage students to dream big and strive to achieve their ambitions.
Finally, a salute to the literary talent and foresight of Dr. Suresh Kumar Mishra ‘Uratrupt,’ who has brought Sunita Williams’ inspirational story to students in Hindi. His initiative is not only a crucial contribution to the field of education but also ensures that the younger generation is inspired by the stories of the world’s great scientists and innovators.
Rajeev Ranjan, Special Correspondent, Bhopal
