New Delhi: Russian cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station have extended Independence Day greetings to India as the country prepares to celebrate its 80th Independence Day on 15 August.
In a video message, the cosmonauts congratulated India and recalled the long history of cooperation between Moscow and New Delhi, describing space exploration as one of the key pillars of the relationship.
“Eight decades ago, India broke free from colonial rule and embarked on a journey towards self-reliance and prosperity,” said cosmonaut Pyotr Dubrov. He also highlighted the landmark achievements in human spaceflight, noting that 2026 marks 65 years since Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first human to travel into space.
Gagarin’s visit to India in November 1961 marked an important moment in the growing friendship between India and the Soviet Union. Recalling his words about the country, the cosmonauts said that India looked beautiful from space but was even more beautiful on Earth because it was home to “true friends.”
“India is very beautiful from above, but it is even more beautiful and special because it is home to true friends,” said cosmonaut Anna Kikina, recalling Gagarin’s words about India.
The three cosmonauts were seen holding the Indian tricolour alongside three posters showcasing India-Russia space cooperation. The posters featured images of Yuri Gagarin, Indian astronaut Rakesh Sharma and India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.
