Survivor’s Chilling 26/11 Account: “I Walked the Terrorists’ Path Minutes Later”

A senior banker has shared a haunting personal story of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. He was working late near multiple attack sites that night. His escape route mirrored the terrorists’ path just minutes earlier.

This account resurfaced after he watched the new film “Dhurandhar.” The film depicts the 26/11 attacks. His story highlights the thin line between normalcy and tragedy.

A Routine Evening Turns Into a Nightmare

The employee worked at a State Bank of India office. He was handling a recruitment project on November 26, 2008. Colleagues had left for the day.

He received urgent calls from his boss and General Manager. They told him to leave work immediately. He did not know about the unfolding terror attacks.

He finished securing his work papers before leaving. He finally stepped out around 8:30 PM. The normally busy streets were eerily deserted.

The Harrowing Realization of Proximity

He walked to Churchgate station and took a train home. His family was in a panic when he arrived. They were watching the horrific news on television.

He then learned the terrifying truth. Ajmal Kasab and an associate had driven past his office building. This happened just 30 minutes after he left the area.

According to multiple reports, including from Reuters, the terrorists’ vehicle had a puncture near his office. They then switched to a white Skoda. This car sped down the road he used daily.

Several bank executives were trapped inside the Trident Hotel during the siege. A colleague was tragically killed at Leopold Café. The banker realized his entire work area was encircled by the attack’s violence.

The 26/11 Mumbai attacks remain a stark reminder of urban vulnerability, a lesson echoed in both personal survival stories and films like “Dhurandhar.”

Info at your fingertips

What were the 26/11 Mumbai attacks?

The 26/11 attacks were a series of coordinated terrorist shootings and bombings in Mumbai. They began on November 26, 2008, and lasted for four days. The attacks killed 166 people and injured hundreds more.

Who was Ajmal Kasab?

Ajmal Kasab was the sole terrorist captured alive during the 26/11 attacks. He was one of ten attackers who arrived by sea from Pakistan. Kasab was convicted and executed in India in 2012.

What is the film “Dhurandhar” about?

“Dhurandhar” is a spy action-thriller directed by Aditya Dhar. It frames a clandestine response to major terror attacks on India, including 26/11. The film stars Ranveer Singh and features a portrayal of the Mumbai attacks.

How many people died in the 26/11 attacks?

Official figures state that 166 people lost their lives in the attacks. This included civilians, security personnel, and foreign nationals. Hundreds more were injured.

Which locations were targeted in Mumbai?

Multiple iconic locations were attacked. These included the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the Trident Hotel, Leopold Café, and a Jewish community center.