Mumbai [India]: On the 16th anniversary of the devastating 26/11 terror attacks, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar paid heartfelt tribute to the brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives during one of India’s darkest days.
The coordinated attacks on November 26, 2008, targeted multiple iconic locations across Mumbai, including the Taj Mahal Hotel, Oberoi Trident Hotel, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Leopold Cafe, Nariman House, Cama Hospital, and Metro Cinema. These heinous acts, carried out by ten Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists who infiltrated Mumbai via sea from Pakistan, left 174 people dead, including 20 security personnel and 26 foreigners, and injured over 300.
Taking to his official social media account, Tendulkar remembered the resilience and bravery demonstrated by both the security forces and the citizens of Mumbai. “26/11 – a day that tested our spirit but never broke it. The courage of our heroes and the resilience of every Mumbaikar will forever remind us of the strength we hold as a nation. We remember, we honour, we stand united,” he wrote.
Tributes From Across the Nation
President Droupadi Murmu also paid homage to the security personnel who laid down their lives to protect the city during the terror siege. In a poignant message, the President reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to combating terrorism, stating, “A grateful nation salutes its valiant security personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our people. It is also the day to reiterate that India remains firmly committed to defeating terrorism in all its forms.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah echoed similar sentiments, describing terrorism as a stain on humanity. He highlighted India’s leadership in global anti-terrorism efforts, adding, “The Modi government’s ‘zero tolerance’ policy against terrorism has been appreciated worldwide. Today, India stands as a leader in anti-terrorism initiatives.”
State Leadership Honors the Martyrs
In Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde led the tributes, laying floral wreaths at the Martyrs’ Memorial. Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, along with Maharashtra Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan, joined him in paying their respects to the courageous individuals who defended the city against the terror attack.
The solemn occasion served as a reminder of the resilience of Mumbai and the strength of its citizens, who, despite immense loss and suffering, refused to be broken. The sacrifices of the heroes who stood tall against terrorism continue to inspire a nation united in the fight against such threats.
