# Oh Taj, Still Bleeding #

By vermavkv on January 26, 2025 • ( 6 )

Oh Taj, .. Waah Taj

Hello, my friends.

I hope this blog finds you in hale and hearty spirits. I love traveling, and today I am excited to share the memories of my recent trip to Mumbai with my family.

It is a rare occasion that I get the opportunity to travel to a desired place with my family members, especially when all my sons are busy with their jobs in different cities.

Since it was such a cherished moment for me, I felt compelled to share the emotional feelings this journey evoked.

Life can often be unpredictable and challenging, yet amidst the whirlwind of our daily lives, it has a way of surprising us with moments of pure joy.

Recently, I had the privilege of experiencing one such unforgettable moment during our visit to Mumbai.

Amidst the city’s hustle and bustle, we carved out time to spend an evening at the iconic Gateway of India, with a special focus on revisiting the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel—a place that holds both grandeur and tragedy in its walls.

The Taj: Grandeur and Grief

The grandeur of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai is breathtaking. As I stood before this magnificent structure, gazing at its opulent halls, I was overwhelmed by its elegance and history.

But beneath the shimmering chandeliers and intricate architecture, there lingers a solemn whisper—a haunting reminder of the terror attacks that once scarred its beauty.

The Taj is not just a hotel; it is an emblem of Mumbai’s resilience. It stands as a witness to history, both glorious and tragic.

My recent visit to this iconic landmark rekindled memories of that dark night in November 2008 when terror gripped the city, and the Taj became a battlefield.

The Night That Shook the Nation

On the night of November 26, 2008, armed terrorists stormed the Taj, turning a symbol of hospitality into a fortress under siege.

For three long days, bullets and flames consumed its grandeur, leaving behind shattered glass, broken walls, and broken hearts.

Lives were lost, dreams were crushed, and yet the spirit of Mumbai refused to bow.

Walking through the corridors, I imagined the fear and chaos that unfolded that night. The sound of gunfire echoing through the halls, guests hiding under tables, and hotel staff risking their lives to save others—these images flashed before my eyes. It was a reminder that even in the face of terror, humanity prevails.

Tales of Heroism

The walls of the Taj are adorned with photographs of its glorious past, but they also silently narrate tales of extraordinary bravery. Hotel staff like Chef Hemant Oberoi and his team stood their ground, protecting guests and ensuring their safety.

Many sacrificed their own lives so others could live. Their courage became a beacon of hope amidst the darkness.

As I stood in the lobby, I could almost hear the unspoken gratitude of those who survived, the tears of those who lost loved ones, and the echoes of prayers for peace.

The Taj is not just a building; it is a living testament to courage and sacrifice.

Rising from the Ashes

The restoration of the Taj after the attacks is a story of resilience. The scars have been healed, yet the memories remain embedded in its walls.

The hotel reopened its doors, not just as a place of luxury but as a symbol of defiance against fear. It declared to the world that Mumbai may bleed, but it will never break.

During my visit, I admired the intricate carvings, the grand staircases, and the stunning sea-facing views. But more than its physical beauty,

I admired its soul—a soul that refused to give in to terror. The Taj stands tall, not just as a hotel but as a guardian of hope.

A Tribute to the Fallen

As I left the Taj, I paused at the memorial plaque honoring those who lost their lives. The names etched in stone reminded me of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit.

It was a humbling experience, a reminder to cherish life and never take peace for granted.

The Taj may still bleed in our memories, but it also inspires us to rise above fear and hatred. It teaches us that even in the face of unimaginable horror, humanity can shine through the darkness.

Yes, friends, my visit to the Taj Palace was more than just sightseeing; it was a journey through history, pain, and triumph.

The Taj, with its timeless elegance, continues to welcome guests from around the world, standing as a monument of resilience and hope.

The wounds of 26/11 may never fully heal, but the Taj reminds us that no force can destroy the spirit of Mumbai. It will always rise, and so will we.

Oh Taj, you may still bleed in memory, but your heart beats stronger than ever.