Delhi, March 18, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended his greetings to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams as she prepares to return to Earth from the International Space Station (ISS) after over nine months. Calling her India’s “most illustrious daughter,” Modi said the country is eager to welcome her home soon.
Williams, whose ancestors hail from Jhulasan village in Gujarat, was stranded in space with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. They had initially gone to the ISS in June 2024 for an eight-day mission, which was extended due to the complications. Now, they are returning aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, along with an American astronaut and a Russian cosmonaut.
In a letter to Williams, Modi wrote, “I convey to you greetings from the people of India. At a program today, I met the noted astronaut, Mr. Mike Massimino. During our conversation, your name came up, and we discussed how proud we are of you and your work.” He said 1.4 billion Indians are proud of Williams’ achievements and are praying for her safe return and good health.
Modi also mentioned Williams’ parents, Bonnie Pandya and the late Deepakbhai, recalling his meeting with them during his 2016 visit to the United States. “Ms. Bonnie Pandya must be keenly awaiting your return, and I am sure that the late Deepakbhai’s blessings are with you as well,” he wrote.
The Prime Minister invited Williams to visit India after her return. “It will be a pleasure for India to host one of its most illustrious daughters,” he said. Modi also extended his best wishes to Williams’ husband, Michael Williams, and her fellow astronaut, Wilmore.
