Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan is an Indian Army officer best known for his heroic actions during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
Serving in the National Security Guard’s (NSG) elite 51st Special Operations Group, he led a critical mission to rescue hostages trapped inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel during the attack.
His bravery and leadership in action, especially his decision to fight terrorists despite being wounded, made him a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
Tragically, Sandeep lost his life in the operation, but the legacy continues to inspire many Indians.
For his heroic efforts, he was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration.
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- Full name: Sandeep Unnikrishnan
- Date of birth: March 15, 1977
- Age: Died in 2008 at the age of 31)
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Kozhikode, Kerala, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Indian Army Officer
- Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
- Parents: K. Unnikrishnan (father), Dhanalakshmi Unnikrishnan (mother)
- Siblings: Not applicable
- Spouse: Neha Unnikrishnan
- Children: Not applicable
- Relationship status: Married (as of 2008)
- Religion: Hinduism
- Ethnicity: Malayan
- Net worth: $1 million
early life and education
Sandeep Unnikrishnan was born on March 15, 1977 in Cheruvannur, a small town in Kerala.
He is the only son of K. Unnikrishnan and Dhanalakshmi Unnikrishnan, retired officials of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
Sandeep spent his formative years in Bangalore after his family moved there. He attended Frank Anthony Public School, where he early showed an interest in the military.
Sandeep graduated from the National Defense Academy (NDA), Pune in 1995, where he began his journey to become a dedicated officer in the Indian Army.
Throughout his academic career, he distinguished himself for his leadership and discipline. In 1999, Sandeep completed his training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, and was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the 7th Battalion of the Bihar Regiment.
personal life
Sandeep Unnikrishnan is married to Neha Unnikrishnan, whom he met at Frank Anthony Public School in Bangalore. The couple had a deep relationship and had been together for many years before getting married.
Despite his commitment to the army, Sandeep remained loyal to his family. The couple has no children. Neha played a vital supporting role throughout Sandeep’s military career.
Neha was left heartbroken by his untimely death in 2008 and since then, she has maintained a private life away from the spotlight.
Profession
Sandeep’s military career began in 1999 when he joined the Bihar Regiment. He quickly earned a reputation as a disciplined and fearless officer.
Over the years, he has participated in several critical operations, including missions along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
In 2006, Sandeep volunteered to join the Nuclear Suppliers Group and was selected to join the elite special operations team responsible for counter-terrorism operations.
His most high-profile mission occurred during the November 2008 Mumbai attacks, when he led a team into the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel to rescue hostages.
During the operation, Sandeep rescued several hostages before being shot dead while fighting terrorists.
His brave words to his team – “Don’t come up here, I’ll handle them” – are still etched in the memories of those who served with him.
Awards
- Ashoka Chakra (posthumous, 2009): India’s highest peacetime gallantry award
- Received numerous military honors for his contributions to counterterrorism operations and his leadership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group
net worth
A dedicated Indian Army officer, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan did not accumulate much wealth before his death, but some sources estimate his net worth to be around $1 million. His life’s mission is to serve his country; therefore, his net worth is not known to the public.
Posthumously, his legacy is cherished through honors, tributes and remembrances. Throughout his life, financial details such as his net worth were never in focus.
die
Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was killed in the Mumbai terror attack on November 28, 2008.
Sandeep rescued hostages and engaged in a fierce firefight with terrorists while leading a National Security Group commando team at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.
He was wounded in action but continued to fight until he was shot. His body was found the next day.
He was only 31 when he died and his last rites were performed with full military honors.
Thousands of people including military personnel, family members and civilians attended his funeral chanting “Sandeep Unnikrishnan Amar Rahe”.
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