KANNUR: P V Maneesh is a perfect emblem of courage. Not just because he was a NSG commando, not just because he took part in the operation against terrorists at the Taj Hotel in Mumbai during the horrid hours of 26/11. But because he showed courage to walk back to life from a debilitating head injury which he suffered during that operation.
If he is not a hero, then hardly anyone is qualified to be one. And there is another trait that heroes share — camaraderie. Maneesh showed it in full measure when he visited the house of A M Subinesh, who was killed while fighting against terrorists in Kashmir.
But Maneesh and Subinesh had shared a much deeper bond. Subinesh used to call him regularly, checking on his health and was a genuine well-wisher. His presence through words was a massive encouragement for Maneesh, who was paralysed after injuries that he suffered from a grenade blast. He recalled the action days in Mumbai and his subsequent struggles while touching base with Express.
Though the thought of people forgetting the contributions of soliders mildly irked him, Maneesh was quick to put it behind. “People may remember me for the action undertaken during the Mumbai terror attack, as it got its due attention from media. But there are many unsung heroes in all the defence forces, who may not have to sacrifice their life but continue to serve their country under difficult conditions,” he said.
Recalling the Mumbai episode, he said, “We received the call when we were in Delhi. Trained for such situations, we quickly geared up for the action and entered the hotel where the terrorists were camping. Just as the team killed a terrorist, a grenade exploded in front of us and the sharpnel hit my skull and I fainted.” Maneesh was in coma for a year and when he returned to consciousness he was paralysed. Several rounds of treatment followed. His determination helped him stage a comeback. But Maneesh still gets fits and needs others’ help occasionally. “Had it not been for my family and friends, I would not have recovered this fast,” he said. He is now attached to the 122 Territorial army. Let’s raise a toast for a true hero then!