Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was an officer in the Indian Army who served in the National Security Guard (NSG). He was born on March 15, 1977, in Kochi, Kerala, and was commissioned into the army in 1999. He is best known for his bravery during the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where he played a crucial role in rescuing hostages at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. During the operation, Major Unnikrishnan displayed exceptional leadership and courage, ultimately sacrificing his life on November 28, 2008. His actions earned him the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime military decoration, posthumously recognizing his dedication to duty and valor in the face of danger.