Reminisces connection with orange city
Ex MARCOS commando, Mumbai attacks veteran and Shaurya Chakra recipient Praveen Kumar Teotia is known for his bravery, determination, and ‘never-say-die spirit’. During the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, he was instrumental in saving innumerable lives despite sustaining severe injures. Today he is an elite endurance athlete, motivational speaker, and author and is a role model for the youth of the country. For such a dedicated and highly patriotic person, every day is like a Republic day or Independence day. But nevertheless, he took to social media platform Twitter to greet the citizens on Tuesday. “The country is made of blood, sweat, and tears. I salute every braveheart who has given everything to the nation. Jai Hind Jai Bharat,” he tweeted. A large number of Citizens in turn wished him back and expressed gratitude to him for his services and sacrifices for the nation.
On the occasion of the 72nd Republic day, Teotia reminisced his various accomplishments during his military career and its aftermath. Forced to retire early as a result of injuries suffered during the attacks, the gallant and versatile former commando did not look behind and is now a champion Marathon runner and an author too. On this 26/11 anniversary, the ex-commando throws light on his experiences during the Mumbai terror attacks and in its aftermath.
Praveen Kumar Teotia hails from village Bhatona in Bulandshahr district of Uttar Pradesh. The aim to serve the country was always ingrained in him since childhood, which eventually led him to join the Navy as a sailor in 2002.
Navy career and role in the 26/11 terror attacks
He distinguished himself in several operations in Kashmir and other parts of the country and was selected to join the elite MARCOS (Marine Commandos) unit, which conducts counter-terrorism and special operations. During the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, he was severely injured in a gun battle with terrorists but paved the way in rescuing hundreds of hostages.
Life after the attacks and emergence as a champion athlete
Having been stuck in the ear and chest by four bullets, Teotia battled for life in a Mumbai hospital for 19 days and ultimately managed to survive. But life was not the same as it was before getting injured. Due to his physical limitations after injury, he was assigned with a desk job in the Navy and retired after some time.
After retirement, he started running in the long-distance marathon and won many events, especially in the ultramarathon and triathlon category. The most notable of his accomplishments include completing the grueling 72 km Khardung La challenge in Ladakh in 2017, Ironman Triathlon Championship in South Africa (comprising 3.86 km swimming, 180 km cycling, and 42.195 km marathon running) in 2018, and many other races.
Humanitarian work during the lockdown
As part of humanitarian efforts coronavirus pandemic induced lockdown, he auctioned several of his hard-earned medals and dedicated around two lakh rupees to the PM CARES Fund. Connection with Nagpur city and its people He has a close connection with Nagpur city and has acquaintances and friends based in Nagpur like a teacher and social worker Soumyajit Thakur, Mitesh Rambhia, and many others. He last participated in the 2018 edition of the Nagpur Marathon and also visited Jam Sawali Hanuman Mandir few occasions.
Recent book launch ‘26/11 Braveheart: My Encounter with Terrorists That Night’ Of late, he has taken up writing and his book titled ‘26/11 braveheart: My encounter with terrorists that night’ was launched recently which throws light on his life, a career in the Indian Navy, and especially his ordeals during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Apart from this, he actively takes part in many other initiatives like providing commando training programs for state police forces personnel and is also a prolific motivational speaker. We salute this great son of the soil and wish him the best for his upcoming endeavors.
