Reflecting on 15 years since 26/11, the stories of five Heroes who defied terror in the 2008 Mumbai attacks

• 15th anniversary of the 26/11 terror attacks prompts reflection on the heroes who saved lives, particularly at the Taj Palace Hotel.
• Notable individuals like Tukaram Omble, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, Mallika Jagad, Karambir Singh Kang, and Thomas Varghese displayed extraordinary courage during the attacks.
• While the scars of 26/11 remain, these unsung heroes exemplify resilience and sacrifice in the face of terror.

On November 26, 2023, marking the 15th anniversary of the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, the nation reflects not only on the haunting memories but also on the acts of valor exhibited by individuals who saved numerous lives during the siege, particularly at the Taj Palace Hotel. The coordinated attacks by 10 terrorists from Pakistan claimed the lives of 166 people and left over 300 injured, with the heroics of the Indian Army and Mumbai Police eventually eliminating the attackers. However, the scars of the terror assault, especially at the Taj Palace Hotel, remain indelible.

Among the unsung heroes are:Tukaram Omble (ASI, Mumbai Police): Despite being shot over 40 times, Omble bravely captured Lashkar terrorist Ajmal Kasab, revealing critical information about the terror plan, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan (Indian Army): Part of the elite NSG unit, Unnikrishnan engaged in a gunfight at the Taj Palace Hotel, evacuating over 50 hostages before sacrificing his life to save others, Mallika Jagad (Banquet Manager, Taj Palace Hotel): Jagad's quick thinking and leadership saved 50 guests, strategically separating spouses to reduce the risk of entire families being lost, Karambir Singh Kang (General Manager, Taj Mumbai): Kang, who lost his life in the attack, guided evacuations, saving hundreds, with his wife and son tragically perishing alongside him, Thomas Varghese (Senior Waiter, Taj's Wasabi): Varghese's courageous actions in guiding guests to safety during the attack in Wasabi exemplify the selflessness of those who stood strong in the face of terror.