Mumbai marked the 17th anniversary of the 2008 terrorist attacks November 26 with a ceremony honoring the bravery of first responders and the families of those who lost their lives. The Global Peace Honours event,held at the Gateway of India,drew prominent figures from across Indian society including Maharashtra’s political leadership and Bollywood stars.Amidst the commemorations, actor Shah Rukh Khan delivered a message of national unity, emphasizing the importance of cohesion in the face of ongoing security challenges.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan called for unity beyond religious and caste lines, stating that a united India is “unbreakable,” during a ceremony in Mumbai honoring the families of officers who died in the line of duty during terrorist attacks.
The event, held November 26, marked 17 years since the devastating 2008 Mumbai attacks. At the Global Peace Honours event, families of those killed and surviving security personnel were recognized for their bravery and sacrifice. The gathering drew numerous prominent figures, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
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“If the people of India live together peacefully, no power can break this country,” Khan said. “The strength of our country is in its unity. India has not bowed its head even in adverse circumstances.” He further emphasized that peace and security will prevail as long as courageous security officers continue to stand strong.
Alongside Fadnavis and Shinde, businessman Mukesh Ambani, and Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh and Sunil Shetty were also in attendance. The ceremony, organized by the Divyaj Foundation at the Gateway of India, honored individuals who faced down terrorists during the attacks. Honorees included Sadananand Date, who was severely injured while confronting Kasab and Abu Ismail; Sunil Jodhe, who continued to fight despite being shot twenty times; and Arun Jadhav, who relayed critical information that helped capture Kasab alive.
Attendees shared harrowing recollections of the attacks, and the families of police officers who died during the capture of Kasab were also honored. The event served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during a dark chapter in Indian history, and the ongoing need for vigilance and unity. This tribute underscores the enduring impact of the Mumbai attacks on the nation’s collective memory.
