Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan Biography: The Lion of Mumbai | Hero of 26/11 | Ashok Chakra Awardee”

Detailed Biography – The Journey of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was born on 15 March 1977 in Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, into a middle-class Nair family. His father, K. Unnikrishnan, was a dedicated ISRO officer, and his mother, Dhanalakshmi Unnikrishnan, was a homemaker who instilled strong values in her children. Sandeep Unnikrishnan had one younger sister, Uthara Unnikrishnan, with whom he shared a close bond.

The family moved to Bangalore when Sandeep was young, where he grew up in a modest neighborhood. From an early age, young Sandeep showed qualities of leadership, courage, and compassion. His teachers at Jnanajyothi School remember him as a curious, energetic child who was always ready to help others.

Educational Journey and Dream Formation

At The Frank Anthony Public School, Bangalore, Sandeep Unnikrishnan excelled not just academically but also in extracurricular activities. He was actively involved in the National Cadet Corps (NCC), where his military aspirations began to take concrete shape. His commanding personality, physical fitness, and leadership skills made him stand out among his peers.

During his pre-university education at M.E.S. Kishinchand Chellaram College, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan became certain about his life’s mission – to serve India through the Indian Army. While his father hoped he might join ISRO like him, he respected his son’s decision to pursue a military career.

The NDA and IMA Journey

In 1997, Sandeep Unnikrishnan cleared the rigorous NDA entrance examination and SSB interview, joining the prestigious National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune. The three-year training at NDA shaped him into a disciplined, skilled military officer. He underwent intensive physical training, learned military tactics, and developed the mental fortitude required for combat situations.

After completing NDA, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan moved to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun for advanced military training. On 12 June 1999, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant into the 7th Battalion of the Bihar Regiment (Rajputana Rifles). This was the beginning of a distinguished military career that would inspire millions.

Military Career and Operational Postings

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s early military career involved challenging counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir, one of the most dangerous operational areas for Indian armed forces. He served in high-altitude regions including the Siachen Glacier, where temperatures drop to -50°C and oxygen levels are critically low. His performance during these postings earned him recognition and respect from his superiors and fellow soldiers.

Between 2000 and 2006, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan participated in multiple successful operations against terrorists and infiltrators. His tactical acumen, physical endurance, and ability to remain calm under pressure made him an exemplary officer. His unit colleagues remember him as someone who always volunteered for the most dangerous missions and led from the front.

Selection to NSG – The Elite Black Cat Commandos

In 2007, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was selected for the National Security Guard (NSG), India’s premier counter-terrorism and counter-hijack force, popularly known as the “Black Cat Commandos.” The selection process for NSG is extremely rigorous, with only the best officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force making it through.

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan underwent intense specialized training in urban warfare, hostage rescue, bomb disposal, and close-quarter combat. He became part of the Special Action Group (SAG), the NSG’s elite offensive unit. His dedication, precision, and tactical excellence made him one of the finest commandos in the force.

The Taj Hotel Mumbai – 26/11 Terror Attacks

On the night of 26 November 2008, ten heavily armed terrorists from Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba launched coordinated attacks across Mumbai. They targeted the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Oberoi Trident Hotel, Nariman House, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, and other crowded locations. Over 160 innocent civilians were killed in the attacks.

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and his NSG team were immediately deployed from their base in Manesar, Delhi. They reached Mumbai in the early hours of 27 November and began operations at the Taj Hotel, where terrorists had taken numerous hostages and were engaged in a standoff with security forces.

How Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan died is a story of unparalleled courage. On 28 November 2008, during the clearing operations on the 6th floor of the Taj Hotel, his team encountered terrorists in a narrow corridor. In the ensuing gunfight, Commando Sunil Yadav was critically injured and trapped in the line of fire.

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan went back into the danger zone alone to rescue Sunil Yadav. While successfully pulling his injured colleague to safety, he was hit by multiple terrorist bullets. Despite his wounds, he continued to engage the terrorists, ensuring that no more of his team members were harmed. He fought valiantly until his last breath, neutralizing the threat and enabling his team to complete the mission.

The Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan death on 28 November 2008 marked the loss of one of India’s bravest soldiers. However, his sacrifice ensured that 14 hostages were rescued alive from the Taj Hotel. The operation concluded successfully, with all terrorists eliminated, largely due to the heroism displayed by Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and his team.

The Emotional Funeral and National Mourning

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan funeral took place in Bangalore with full military honors. Thousands of citizens lined the streets to pay their respects to the fallen hero. Senior defense officials, political leaders, and ordinary citizens came together to mourn the loss. His parents, K. Unnikrishnan and Dhanalakshmi Unnikrishnan, showed tremendous courage during the funeral, with his mother famously stating that she was proud her son died serving the nation.

In a final act of generosity, the Sandeep Unnikrishnan family donated his eyes and organs, giving the gift of life and sight to others even after his death. This gesture perfectly embodied the spirit of service that defined Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s life.

Legacy and Inspiration

Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s story has inspired countless young Indians to join the armed forces and serve the nation. His life demonstrates that true heroism lies not in seeking glory but in selflessly serving others. Schools, colleges, and military academies across India use his example to teach values of courage, duty, and sacrifice.

The Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan movie “Major,” released in 2022, brought his story to a wider audience, especially the younger generation. The film beautifully portrayed his journey from a small-town boy with big dreams to a national hero who gave his life protecting his countrymen.

Quick Facts Summary – At a Glance

Career Philosophy & Vision of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan

Educational Impact & Mentorship Legacy

Though Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s life was cut short, his legacy continues to inspire and educate thousands of aspiring defense officers and young Indians:

Lessons & Inspiration for Defense Aspirants

Recent Developments & Continuing Legacy (2020-2025)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)