The 26/11 Mumbai attacks serve as a haunting reminder of the brutality of terrorism, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of India and the world. However, amidst the chaos and devastation of that fateful night, stories of remarkable bravery and selflessness emerged, illuminating the resilience of the human spirit. Among these narratives lies the heroic saga of the nurses of Cama Hospital, who emerged as beacons of courage and compassion during the darkest hours of the attack, saving lives and displaying extraordinary valor.
The Siege of Cama Hospital:
The Cama & Albless Hospital is a hospital for women and children in the city of Mumbai, found itself thrust into the heart of the mayhem on November 26, 2008. As terrorists, armed to the teeth unleashed terror across the city, targeting landmarks such as luxury hotels, a railway station, and a Jewish center, Cama Hospital became a battleground in its own right.
Amidst the panic and confusion, the nurses of Cama Hospital rose to the occasion with unwavering resolve and fortitude. There were 15 nurses on duty that night. Despite the looming danger, they remained steadfast in their commitment to caring for the injured and wounded. With limited resources and amidst the cacophony of gunfire and explosions, these nurses worked tirelessly, providing essential medical care and solace to those in distress.
Acts of Heroism:
The nurses of Cama Hospital exhibited acts of heroism that epitomized their unwavering dedication to saving lives, often at great personal risk. Many nurses, like Staff Nurse Anjali Kulthe, improvised medical supplies, fashioned bandages from torn bedsheets, and assisted doctors in surgeries under harrowing circumstances. She had saved 20 pregnant women from a terrorist attack.
Anjali's remarkable bravery during the attack on Cama and Albless Hospital for Women and Children stands as a testament to the courage displayed by healthcare workers in the face of adversity.
Upon witnessing two terrorists storming into the hospital, Nurse Anjali swiftly secured the antenatal care ward's doors, protecting the patients. She then evacuated the pregnant women and their families to a concealed area. Amidst gunfire, Anjali tended to a wounded servant and discreetly signaled for help. Despite delayed police arrival and grenade attacks, she successfully facilitated a safe birth amidst the chaos, showcasing remarkable composure and expertise.
While addressing the UNSC, she said “My uniform gave me the courage and my passion for nursing gave me clarity of thought. While escorting a patient to the pregnancy ward, we heard heavy gun firing and grenade explosions. We spent the whole night in complete darkness with patients locked up in the room. We opened the doors the next day when the police arrived. It was hard to believe that we were alive."
The aftermath of the attack left lasting scars on Anjali and her colleagues, who struggled to resume their regular lives and duties. Anjali, in particular, faced challenges adjusting to her job and experienced profound psychological distress. However, her unwavering courage and resilience remained undiminished, as she bravely testified against one of the terrorists responsible for the attack.
The heroic actions of nurses like Anjali Kulthe during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks exemplify the extraordinary bravery and selflessness displayed by healthcare workers in the face of adversity. Their unwavering dedication to saving lives, even at great personal risk, serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of humanity in the darkest of times. As we commemorate the anniversary of the attacks, let us honor the courage and sacrifice of these unsung heroes who embody the true essence of resilience and compassion.
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?extid=CL-UNK-UNK-UNK-IOS_GK0T-GK1C&mibextid=v7YzmG&v=328840312295099
