Sunita Williams’ India connection: Capturing Kumbh Mela from space, carrying a Ganesh idol aboard the ISS

As NASA astronaut Sunita Williams are on their way back to Earth, her Indian roots remain a significant part of her journey. During her nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Williams stayed connected to her culture—even capturing an iconic view of the Kumbh Mela from space.

Her cousin, Falguni Pandya, in an interview with News18, spoke about Williams’ deep connection to India, from carrying a Ganesh idol to space to her ancestral village in Gujarat organising prayers for her safe return.

Ganesh idol in space

Williams, who has spent over nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), took a Ganesh idol with her, keeping it by her side throughout her mission. Sharing a glimpse of her spiritual side, Pandya noted how she even sent a picture of the idol floating in microgravity to her family.

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Family’s special prayers

Back on Earth, Williams’ relatives are eagerly awaiting her return. Her cousin, Falguni Pandya, currently in New Jersey, revealed that the family has planned a special prayer and havan at a temple to mark the occasion. “We are eagerly waiting for her return. We have planned a special prayer and havan at the temple to celebrate,” Pandya said.

Love for Indian culture and food

Williams has long embraced her Indian heritage, and her fondness for Indian cuisine is no exception. Pandya mentioned that once she is back, the family plans to visit India together. “Sunita loves Indian food, we will visit India again once she returns,” she added.

A space view of Kumbh Mela

Williams’ curiosity about Indian traditions was evident when her cousin visited the Kumbh Mela in February. “When I shared my pictures of the Kumbh Mela with her, she sent me a picture from space. It was an iconic picture of the Kumbh Mela,” Pandya recalled.

You can follow our live blog for the latest details on her descent to Earth.

Ties with Gujarat and PM Modi

Williams’ connection to India extends beyond her family. She and her father met Narendra Modi in 2007 when he was Gujarat’s Chief Minister and later in the United States after he became Prime Minister. “Sunita is a proud daughter of Gujarat, and her village, Jhulasan, is celebrating her return,” Pandya noted.

Village celebrations in Jhulasan

In Jhulasan, the ancestral village of Williams’ father, residents have been keeping an ‘Akhand Jyot’ (eternal flame) burning since she left for space. The flame will remain lit until she safely returns.

The village is also planning a grand celebration in her honour, with a procession that will include prayer chanting, fireworks, and students joining the march. “We will perform a dhun (prayer chanting) at the temple,” said Navin Pandya, another cousin.

As Williams makes her journey back to Earth, the prayers and celebrations across continents reflect her deep-rooted connection to her Indian heritage.

With additional inputs from agencies