NSG organises ‘Neverever’ memorial and pledge ceremony at gateway of India on 26/11 anniversary

On the 17th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the National Security Guard (NSG) will organise a remembrance ceremony at the Gateway of India today, officials said. The event, under the theme ‘Neverever’, will honour the security personnel, civilians, and foreign nationals who lost their lives, as well as the survivors of the attacks.

A dedicated memorial zone will display photographs and names of the fallen, accompanied by floral tributes and candles. A “living memorial” created from the wax of homage candles will be preserved to ensure the memory of the tragedy and the courage of those affected endures for future generations.

Students from 11 colleges and 26 schools will participate in pledge-taking ceremonies, reinforcing youth awareness of peace, national security, and civic vigilance. Citizens will also be able to take part through a pledge booth and message-writing corner, sharing messages for victims and survivors.

The programme will include felicitation of survivors and families of the fallen, along with curated audio-visual segments depicting the events of 26/11. In the evening, the Gateway of India will be illuminated in the tricolour, with the word “Neverever” projected, symbolising Mumbai’s and the nation’s enduring spirit of courage and resilience, officials said.

On November 26, 2008, ten terrorists from Pakistan carried out coordinated attacks across Mumbai, targeting the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Oberoi Trident Hotel, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Leopold Cafe, and Nariman House. Considered among the most gruesome attacks on civilians in India, the assaults claimed 166 lives, including security personnel and foreigners, and left more than 300 injured, leaving a lasting impact on Mumbai and prompting major reforms in India’s counter-terrorism measures.

The remembrance ceremony serves as a solemn tribute and a public pledge that such a tragedy must never ever happen again, ensuring the lessons and bravery of 26/11 continue to guide India’s approach to security and vigilance.