INDIA: Vishwas Nangare Patil is an Indian Police Service Officer (IPS) who emerged as a hero during the 2008 Mumbai Terror Attacks. For his bravery and courage, IPS Patil bagged the award of President’s Police Medal, aka Gallantry award, in 2015.
During the 2008 Terror Attacks, Vishwas Nangare Patil served as deputy commissioner of the police in South Mumbai. Patil experienced the horror of the attacks while battling terrorists in the Taj Hotel. He also shot one in the leg, emerging as an epitome of bravery and idealism for every Indian.
IPS Patil narrates his 2008 terror attack experience
Sharing his experience of the 2008 terror attacks on The Ranveer Show podcast, IPS Patil added, “Mayhem I have to witness when I reached over there. Generally, police officers arrive at a crime scene after it happens, but, in this case, crime was happening, and innocent people were being killed. Foreigners, senior citizens, and women were crying for help.”
He elaborated further, “I loaded the Glock approaching the first floor, where we found two girls injured in the pool of blood. We helped them and later approached the second floor. We spotted three terrorists. There was no time to aim. I took the position and fired rounds at them. During the firing, Taj’s security chief Sunil Kudiyadi got injured.”
IPS Patil also added that the firing was crucial; if it hadn’t happened, many people could have been massacred that day. “This type of opportunity you get once in a lifetime for which I wore the uniform for which I joined the IPS. To be a martyr for the country or to fight for the country, this is the best opportunity I have,” he stated.
IPS Patil’s journey as a writer
Following IPS Patil’s bravery in the 2008 attacks, his journey continues with notable works. Besides his working accolades, he has also penned numerous books providing life lessons and knowledge to Indian youth. Patil’s autobiographical book “Mann Mein Hai Vishwas” acted as a navigation for UPSC aspirants.
IPS Patil’s journey as a writer didn’t stop at “Mann Mein Hain Vishwas” he later penned another book, “Kar Har Maidan Fateh,” which showcased his journey after being selected for the Indian Police Services. The second book chronicled the struggles and challenges one has to face while serving in India’s prestigious services.
The massive success of “Mann Mein Hain Vishwas” recently led to its English publication. The English version of the book is titled “Head Held High.” Prominent Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar also presented the book.
Presenting the book, Khiladi Kumar wrote, “Presenting with pride & happiness filled in my heart, my friend Vishwas’ books! Knowing him personally for so long, Head Held High and Win All Your Battles are not just titles of books but mantras and the value system he lives by in his everyday life! More power to you @vishwasnp.”
Also Read: 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack: A Dark Day in Indian History
