Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force has embarked on the historic Axiom Mission 4, becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS) and the second Indian to travel to space after 41 years. Along with scientific instruments, he’s also carrying the emotions and culture of a billion Indians.

Shukla is taking along specially prepared Indian sweets - gajar (carrot) halwa, moong dal halwa, and mango nectar-which he plans to share with fellow astronauts aboard the ISS. He also carries Joy, a five-inch white toy swan, dubbed the “fifth crew member,” serving as a zero-gravity indicator.

Shukla, deeply inspired by India’s first astronaut Rakesh Sharma, is also carrying a surprise gift for his mentor. He plans to present it to Sharma upon returning from space, keeping the exact item a secret for now.