What Shubhanshu Shukla is Teaching Every Leader?

After 41 Years, It’s a New Beginning

Shubhanshu Shukla’s leadership lessons from space are rewriting history and teaching every professional what it truly means to lead with grit, purpose, and vision.
In 1984, as Soyuz T-11 soared into space, Rakesh Sharma’s iconic words “Saare Jahan Se Achha” became an anthem of national pride. Fast forward to 2025: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, aboard Axiom Mission 4, becomes the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS). His journey is more than a personal triumph it’s a powerful reminder that real leadership is born in silence, struggle, and outer space.

A Story of Grit and Mindfulness

Shubhanshu Shukla’s story begins far from the limelight. Inspired by the Kargil War, he joined the Indian Air Force, driven by a deep desire to serve his country. His path was never easy. In 2019, he faced the relentless demands of astronaut training, a year long gruelling journey that tested his body, mind, and spirit. There were tough days, moments of near burnout, and the immense weight of a billion expectations resting on his shoulders.

What kept him going? Mindful resilience. Shubhanshu learned to focus on the present moment, to draw strength from each challenge, and to keep moving forward, one step at a time. He transformed challenge into growth, and pressure into performance.

• • Dream Big, Start Small: Even the most extraordinary journeys begin with a single step.
  • Embrace Resilience: The ability to stay mindful and resilient in the face of adversity is what separates great leaders from the rest.
  • Value Collaboration: True progress happens when we work together, crossing boundaries and building bridges.
  • Lead with Purpose: Let your actions inspire others, not just through words, but through unwavering commitment and integrity.

A Masterclass in Global Partnership

Shubhanshu’s selection for the Axiom 4 mission is not just a personal triumph, it’s a testament to the power of collaboration. This mission is a masterclass in global partnership, bringing together the expertise and ambition of ISRO, SpaceX, Axiom, and NASA. It shows what can be achieved when nations and organizations unite for a common goal.

Lessons for Every Leader

Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey offers timeless lessons for leaders everywhere:

The Legacy Continues

As Shubhanshu Shukla orbits the Earth, he carries with him the hopes of a nation and the dreams of countless professionals. His story reminds us that it’s never too late for a new beginning, and that with grit, mindfulness, and collaboration, the sky is not the limit, it’s just the beginning.

What will you dare to dream, and how will you lead your journey?

Manish Behl

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