Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, set to pilot the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 11, will bring a taste of India to space with a curated menu of traditional delicacies. Collaborating with ISRO and the Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL), Shukla’s space-friendly meals, designed for zero gravity, include:
- Aamras: Made from Malihabadi mangoes, prepared by Shukla’s mother and packaged under NASA guidelines for a sweet, nostalgic touch.
- Moong Dal Halwa: A comforting, nutrient-rich dessert developed by DRDO to retain flavour in microgravity.
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Gajar Ka Halwa: Crafted with desi red carrots, milk, and khoya, this treat ensures a taste of home.
- Steamed Basmati Rice: Paired with international freeze-dried curries available on the ISS.
- Other Dishes: Ready-to-eat options include idli, upma, biryani, pulao, dal, vegetable curry, and roti, which are rehydrated with water before consumption.
These meals, tailored for the 14-day mission, mark a milestone in bringing Indian cuisine to space.
Shukla’s mission marks a milestone for India, as he becomes the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS.
To make him feel at home, ISRO, in collaboration with DRDO, has arranged a menu of Indian food including aam ras, moong dal halwa, gajar halwa, and various rice dishes. This is the first time Indian cuisine is making its way to space aboard an ISS mission. His menu reflects India’s cultural heritage, boosting morale while he conducts experiments on microalgae, tardigrades, and sprouting seeds like moong and methi for sustainable space nutrition.
According to media reports, Shukla wasn’t granted permission to carry Indian food due to concerns over the cuisine’s spicy nature. However, as his sister Suchi Shukla revealed, “Since Indian food is high on spices, he wasn’t getting the permission to carry them. But finally, they did allow a few varieties. He is a fitness freak and highly into yoga, so I am sure he will balance it.
