Russian cosmonauts celebrate Indian Independence Day from Earth orbit.

Russian crew members living aboard the International Space Station have sent special greetings to India ahead of its 80th Independence Day. Floating in zero gravity, the cosmonauts held up the Indian national flag to honour the strong relationship between Moscow and New Delhi. They recorded a heartwarming video message to congratulate all citizens, highlighting how space exploration has always kept both nations close.

Deep Roots of Bilateral Space Ties

Space cooperation remains a solid foundation of this international friendship. Cosmonaut Pyotr Dubrov wished peace and prosperity for everyone in India while noting a major historical milestone. This current year marks exactly 65 years since Soviet pioneer Yuri Gagarin became the first human to orbit Earth. Gagarin visited India back in November 1961, calling it a beautiful home filled with true friends. Historically, the Soviet Union provided crucial technical support to help India establish its early space ambitions during the height of the Cold War.

From Early Satellites to Gaganyaan

Working together officially started in 1975 when a Soviet rocket launched Aryabhata, which was India's very first satellite. Just nine years later, in 1984, Rakesh Sharma made history as the first Indian citizen to fly into orbit on the Soyuz T-11 spacecraft. Today, this historical bond is evolving alongside modern space initiatives. Cosmonaut Anna Kikina explained how the current partnership focuses on the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. Four designated Indian astronauts have successfully finished their rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Russia. These talented Gaganyatris are currently preparing for India's highly anticipated first crewed mission.

Artistic Tributes and Lasting Bonds

Furthermore, Roscosmos and ISRO organised a creative joint competition to celebrate this ongoing partnership. Winning artwork submitted by students was displayed proudly next to the cosmonauts during their video broadcast. Ending the message on a high note, cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev held the bright tricolour flag up high inside the station module, wishing long life and continued success to the deep friendship between both nations.

With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI