Wednesday 15 March 2023

The Courageous Warrior: Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan's Story

(Photo: Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, Wikipedia)

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was an Indian Army officer who sacrificed his life while fighting against terrorists during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. He was born on March 15, 1977, in Kozhikode, Kerala. Sandeep Unnikrishnan was a brave soldier who gave his life to protect the people of India.

Early Life:
Sandeep Unnikrishnan was the only child of his parents, K. Unnikrishnan and Dhanalakshmi. He had a happy childhood and was known for his friendly and cheerful nature. Sandeep grew up in Bangalore, where his father was an ISRO scientist. He studied at the Frank Anthony Public School and completed his graduation from the National College.

Student Life:
Sandeep Unnikrishnan was an all-rounder in school and college. He was a bright student and excelled in academics. He was also a sports enthusiast and played basketball, football, and hockey. Sandeep was a member of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) during his school days and was awarded the best cadet award.

Hobbies and Interests:
Sandeep Unnikrishnan had a variety of interests and hobbies. He was an avid reader and loved to read books on history, politics, and economics. Sandeep was also interested in music and played the guitar. He was a fitness enthusiast and enjoyed working out in his free time. Sandeep was also a food lover and enjoyed trying out different cuisines.

Joining Army:
After completing his post-graduation, Sandeep Unnikrishnan joined the Indian Army in June 1999. He was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the 7th Battalion of the Bihar Regiment. Sandeep was later transferred to the 1st Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles. He also underwent training with the National Security Guards (NSG) and was part of the elite Special Action Group (SAG).

Designation and Promotion:
During his service in the Indian Army, Sandeep Unnikrishnan was promoted several times. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2005 and to Major in 2008. Sandeep was a skilled officer and was known for his dedication and commitment towards his duty.

War and Battle:
Sandeep Unnikrishnan was a brave soldier who participated in several counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. He was also involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks. During the attacks, Sandeep was part of the NSG team that was sent to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel to rescue hostages. Sandeep bravely led the operation and helped evacuate several hostages to safety. However, Sandeep was fatally wounded in the operation.

26/11 Mumbai Attack:
During the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was a member of the National Security Guards (NSG), popularly known as the Black Cats. On November 26, 2008, when terrorists attacked the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Unnikrishnan led the operation to clear the hotel of terrorists.

As the operation began, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, along with his team, moved towards the fifth floor of the hotel, where the terrorists were holed up. In the ensuing gun battle, he charged at the terrorists and was hit by a bullet. However, he refused to retreat and continued to fight until he was hit by another bullet.

Despite his injuries, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan continued to engage the terrorists and managed to rescue several hostages. He succumbed to his injuries on November 28, 2008.

Unnikrishnan's bravery and selflessness during the operation earned him the Ashoka Chakra, the highest peacetime military decoration in India, awarded for valor, courageous action, or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield. He was also posthumously awarded the National Security Guards' (NSG) 'Ops Black Tornado' commendation for his role in the operation.

Memorial and Other Honours:

Sandeep Unnikrishnan is remembered as a national hero for his bravery and sacrifice. The Indian government has honoured him with several awards and honours. Sandeep was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra.

1. Ashoka Chakra: Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, the highest peacetime military decoration in India, for his gallantry during the 26/11 attacks.

2. National bravery Award: In recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was also posthumously awarded the National Bravery Award by the Indian government.

3. Schools named after him: Several schools across India have been named after Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan to honor his sacrifice and inspire future generations.

4. Commemorative stamps: The Indian Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp in honor of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan on the tenth anniversary of his death.

5. Memorial tournaments: In memory of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, several sports tournaments have been organized in different parts of the country.

6. Biographical films: A biographical film titled "Major" was released in 2022, which portrays the life and sacrifice of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan.

The legacy of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for countless individuals across India. His bravery, selflessness, and commitment to duty will always be remembered and celebrated by the nation. His story continues to inspire people to serve their country with honor and pride, and his sacrifices will always be a reminder of the true meaning of patriotism.

Movie:
In 2022, a Hindi-language biographical movie titled "Major" was released, based on the life of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan. Directed by Sashi Kiran Tikka, the movie stars Adivi Sesh in the titular role, with Sobhita Dhulipala, Saiee Manjrekar, and Prakash Raj in supporting roles. The film was produced by Sony Pictures Films India in association with Mahesh Babu's production company, GMB Entertainment. 

(Photo: Major (Film), Wikipedia)

The movie begins with Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan's childhood, his family, education, and his journey into the Indian Army. It then showcases his heroic actions during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and how he sacrificed his life while trying to save hostages.

The film was shot in various locations, including Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Leh. The makers of the movie have claimed that it is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and all the soldiers who have laid down their lives for the nation.

The film received positive reviews from both audiences and critics, with many praising Adivi Sesh's performance as Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan. It was also hailed for its emotional and gripping portrayal of the events of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

the movie "Major" is a fitting tribute to the life and sacrifice of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of Indian soldiers in the face of adversity.

There are many articles written about Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, both during his lifetime and after his death. Here are some notable ones:

1. "The hero who fought till the last bullet" by Chetan Bhagat - This article was published in The Times of India in 2008 and recounts the events of the 26/11 attacks as well as Major Unnikrishnan's heroism.

2. "The Last Words of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan" by Ravi Velloor - This article was published in The Straits Times in 2008 and provides details about Major Unnikrishnan's final moments.

3. "Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan: In memory of India's hero" by Vishnu Mohan - This article was published in Gulf News in 2019 and pays tribute to Major Unnikrishnan's bravery and sacrifice.

4. "Sandeep Unnikrishnan, the hero who saved countless lives in 26/11 attacks" by Manish Singh - This article was published in The Indian Express in 2020 and provides a detailed account of Major Unnikrishnan's actions during the attacks.

5. "Sandeep Unnikrishnan's life is an inspiration: Filmmaker Sashi Kiran Tikka" - This article was published in The New Indian Express in 2022 and discusses the making of the film Major and its portrayal of Major Unnikrishnan.

These are just a few examples of the many articles that have been written about Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan.

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was a brave soldier who dedicated his life to serving his country. He demonstrated tremendous courage and selflessness in the face of danger, and his sacrifice will always be remembered. We salute him for his bravery and unwavering commitment to protecting his fellow citizens. May his memory continue to inspire generations to come.

(Disclaimer: This article is written with the help of Text Based AI (Artificial Intelligence). There may be chances of some of the data mismatch. If any, please let us inform through the contact form or comment to rectify the same. In any manner, we do not concern to insult or misbehave for the martyr of the mother land.)

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