Kalpana Chawla, the daughter of Bharatmata, Par Excellence
You brought us Pride through deeds and reverence
As the world waited to welcome you from space mission
You chose to say goodbye and continued divine mission

Born in Karnal, Haryana, to parents of partition adversity
Topped in Electrical Engineering at Punjab University
Mastered in Aeronautical Engineering at Texas University
"Robotics arm operator and mission specialist", your virtuosity

You chose to redefine the frontiers by your scholarship
And represented youth, hope, aspiration, and fellowship
"I am citizen of the world and belong everywhere" your vintage
And yet you were proud of your Indian roots and heritage

Inspired by JRD Tata's aviation adventures
You set your mind to reach for the stars
You are the role model for India's youngsters
Who want to be Astronauts, the superstars!

As you re-entered the earth did your space odyssey get underway
Through the stars, the galaxies, and the milky way
The seven brave souls of STS-87, Columbia's 28th mission
Reaching beyond Aurora, and "Sapta Rishi" Constellation

You may have distanced from us in light years
And yet will reside with us through our enlightened years
O! The jewel of India! As we bid you farewell in tears
May you rest in heavenly abode at the final frontiers.