Widow's Salute: Slain Navy Officer’s Farewell Breaks Hearts
Vinay Narwal, a 26-year-old Lieutenant in the Indian Navy, was tragically killed in a terrorist attack in Kashmir just days after his wedding. Originally from Karnal, Haryana, Lieutenant Vinay Narwal married Himanshi on April 16. The couple hosted their wedding reception on April 19 and departed for their honeymoon in Kashmir on April 21.
While enjoying the scenic surroundings of Baisaran, a picturesque location near Pahalgam known as the “Mini Switzerland” of Kashmir, the newlyweds were eating bhel puri when a terrorist approached them and shot Vinay Narwal at point-blank range in the head. He collapsed instantly, and his blood splattered on Himanshi. “We were eating bhel puri when someone came and shot my husband,” Himanshi recounted in a video that captured her anguish.
Wife's Poise Amidst Pain Moves Nation
Vinay Narwal’s body was flown to Delhi today on a special aircraft. Himanshi stood beside the coffin in tears, tightly embracing it as she mourned her husband’s death. “I pray his soul rests in peace. We will live in a way that would make him proud,” she said, offering repeated salutes and tributes. “Because of men like him, the world still survives. We all must be proud of him,” she stated while bowing before the coffin. Family members were seen trying to console her.
Despite her overwhelming grief, Himanshi composed herself, wiped her tears, and stood straight. In front of naval officers and dignitaries, she saluted her late husband and solemnly said, “Jai Hind.” The emotionally charged moment left onlookers deeply moved. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who was present, also paid her respects to Narwal and comforted Himanshi.
A Life of Service, Cut Short by Terror
Lieutenant Vinay Narwal had joined the Indian Navy two years ago and was currently posted in Kochi. In the Baisaran terrorist attack, he was one of 26 individuals killed, including an Intelligence Bureau officer.
His grandfather Hawa Singh, a retired BSF officer, shared memories of Vinay’s passion for national service. “Even as a child, he asked endless questions about military vehicles. Knowing the hardships at the borders, I advised against this path—but he was determined,” he said. “He was directly selected through the Services Selection Board and joined the Navy. He was promoted to Lieutenant 18 months ago,” he added with pride, even as he struggled through tears. “Now, we cannot bring him back,” he said, overcome with sorrow.