Gajar ka halwa in zero gravity: Shubhanshu shares sweet taste of home on ISS

In a heartwarming moment aboard the International Space Station, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla brought more than science to space—he brought Gajar ka halwa. The beloved Indian dessert, specially developed for space travel by ISRO and DRDO, turned a routine evening on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) into a memorable celebration of culture, camaraderie, and cuisine.

The impromptu party featured an eclectic mix of space-friendly dishes: rehydrated shrimp cocktails, savoury chicken fajitas, crackers, and a creative dessert crafted from sweet bread, condensed milk, and walnuts—each plate reflecting the international spirit of the crew.

But it was the halwa that stole the show. Shared with fellow astronauts, it became a symbol of connection across continents—and orbits.

“One of the most unforgettable evenings I’ve experienced on this mission,” said astronaut Jonny Kim, “was sharing a meal with new friends on Ax-4. We swapped stories and marveled at how people from diverse backgrounds and nations came together to represent humanity in space.”

As Shukla and his crewmates continue their cosmic journey, moments like this remind us that even hundreds of kilometers above Earth, the simplest traditions—like sharing dessert—can make us feel right at home.