February 1 is an important day for those who have a keen interest in astronomy and the space world. India’s first woman astronaut Kalpana Chawla lost her life along with 6 other astronauts when their space shuttle Columbia blew up in the sky. The horrific incident took place in 2003 and even today we heartily remember Kalpana for her grit and determination for aiming high. The space shuttle was just about to enter the earth’s atmosphere but it, unfortunately, disintegrated over Texas taking lives of all the members. The space shuttle was on a specialist mission studying earth and space science, advanced technology development, and astronaut health and safety. Recently our Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to India’s pride. While talking he said, "She sent a valuable message to all Indians, especially young girls. Her message is, "Nothing is impossible for women if they have a strong will." In a time like today where India is encountering so many crimes against women and struggling for equality, such examples are just the motivation we need. While Kalpana’s work and achievements have already made Indians proud, on her 15th death anniversary, let us look at some of her quotes on which are just as rousing.

  1. The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it.

  2. When you look at the stars and the galaxy, you feel that you are not just from any particular piece of land, but from the solar system.

  3. Some of the senior people, the very senior astronauts, shook my hand and said, 'K.C., you did a great job. Don't let anyone tell you different.'

  4. The journey matters as much as the goal.

  5. Do something because you really want to do it. If you're doing it just for the goal and don't enjoy the path, then I think you're cheating yourself.

  6. I would say if you have a dream, follow it. It doesn't really matter whether you are a woman or from India or from wherever.

  7. I have felt that connection and stewardship for Earth for as long as I can remember. And not just for Earth, but the whole universe.

  8. There are so many people who are arguing or fighting over issues which don't have much relevance. We must all realise it is not worth it. It's like being in the whirlpools which are always present behind a little rock near a river. We seem to be living in these little whirlpools and forget that there is a whole river. The picture is much bigger.

These quotes show her passion towards her dream and how she always appreciated hard work on her journey before reaching her destination. She knew what she wanted to do since her childhood, and she continued along the same way. She spoke about how beautiful space was and the triviality of all the fights that we keep fighting for. “Take care of our fragile planet,” she said in one of her interviews and it is so relevant today. Kalpana Chawla, you still stay in our hearts!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 01, 2018 11:46 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).