Congratulations to Shubhanshu Shukla, astronaut and Group Captain, Indian Air Force, on being named THE WEEK’s Man of the Year. His journey from a middle-class upbringing in Lucknow to an 18-day mission on the International Space Station is a testament to his perseverance, excellence and aspiration (‘Shux and the blue marble’, December 21).
What stands out is not only the rarity of the achievement, but the grace with which it has been carried out. Shukla’s composure under pressure, intellectual humility and partnership with his wife Kamna reflect leadership rooted in character rather than spectacle.
K. Chidanand Kumar,
On email.
Congratulations to Shukla on being bestowed with THE WEEK’s Man of the Year—an honour that carries special prestige. Shukla comes across as a humble individual—a quality that feels especially refreshing in these times.
Shukla has so much to share from his experience in space, which is certain to inspire generations to dream boldly and aspire to reach for the stars.
Anjali Saxena,
On email.
Shukla’s journey reminds us that success in science and space is rarely the result of sudden brilliance; rather, it is the product of sustained public investment, discipline and teamwork built over years.
In an age captivated by instant results and loud claims, this story makes a calm yet persuasive case for continuity, long-term funding and research training. Only by respecting time and process can such achievements become enduring milestones rather than rare exceptions.
S.M. Jeeva,
On email.
I read your article on Shukla and found it really fascinating. His life journey is thrilling, and his achievements deeply commendable.
I would like to request THE WEEK to bring out more such stories, as they can inspire and guide future generations.
Anil Deshpande,
On email.
Maritime ambition to national gain
A close reading of your article reveals a story less about new sea routes but more about the patience required to turn geography into advantage (‘Ocean therapy’, December 21).
The promise of Eurasian and Arctic corridors lies not merely in speed, but in the discipline of aligning diplomacy with ports, skills and environmental stewardship at home. Without such balance, connectivity risks remaining aspirational. A sustained focus on institutional capacity and long-term planning would allow maritime ambition to mature into durable national gain.
Abbharna Barathi,
On email.
Difficult questions need answers
The verdict in Kerala’s most polarising actor assault case came as a shock to me (‘Low point’, December 21). That said, there are many who feel that the full truth of the matter is yet to emerge. There are so many unanswered questions and lingering doubts in the public mind. Were there others involved? Was Dileep wrongly accused, as some believe?
These are difficult questions, but one that needs clarity—for only then can one find a sense of closure and peace.
Vandana Balagopal,
On email.
Dileep should not have been let off so easily; it is a shame. I believe he played a conspiratorial role. While the court order must be respected, it is really sad that the investigative agencies failed in doing their job. In fact, they messed it up.
I stand with the survivor, and if she believes the verdict and the process that led to it were flawed, higher courts should take note.
Also, people in Kerala have better things to do than fight over this issue. Yes, the survivor deserves our support and all morally conscious people should stand with her in her fight for justice, but let us try not to be overly emotional on this issue.
Anup C.,
On email.
I believe Dileep was framed in the case. Personal issues should never reach a point where they spiral out of control and become matters of public spectacle. Dileep should consider meeting the survivor and assuring her that he was not involved, while also expressing his support in uncovering the truth. The onus lies on him to do so. His admirers cannot simply assert that he is innocent or question the survivor’s credibility.
The real culprits, whoever that be, should pay a heavy price.
Sahaj Keshav,
On email.
Deeply moving
The story of Caroline Casey and her bond with Kanchi, the elephant, was deeply moving (‘The road to freedom’, December 21). Seeing Caroline and her friend Andy perform a small puja for Kanchi at the site of her cremation was truly touching.
Elephants are such loving creatures. They understand so much—often things that even humans fail to grasp—and when treated with care, they respond with remarkable compassion. Elephants support one another in times of adversity and mourn their loved ones, much like humans do. Rarely has any other animal shown traits so closely resembling our own.
Tapesh Nagpal,
On email.
The story of Caroline and Kanchi is truly special and deserves to be retold again and again. Kanchi was her true extension. Riding an elephant for nearly 1,000km is no easy feat.
With laws on the domestication and use of elephants becoming increasingly stringent in Kerala, it is hard to imagine whether someone like Caroline would be permitted to ride a domesticated elephant in that manner today.
Surabhi G.P.,
On email.