One year since Pahalgam terror attack:Son recalls father’s final act of courage; says he died while saving others

April 22, 2025 marks one year since the terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 people were killed, including Indore resident Sushil Nathaniel. What was meant to be a search for ‘paradise’ in Kashmir turned into a nightmare for the Nathaniel family in a matter of moments. Though the bloodshed in the valley may have faded with time, the echoes of that horrific day still linger within the walls of Sushil Nathaniel’s home in Indore. The attack was not just an act of terror, but a devastating blow that shattered a son’s dreams and a wife’s life. If there hadn’t been insistence on horse riding, Papa would have been with us Even after a year, the incident continues to haunt Sushil’s son, Austin, like a recurring nightmare. He says, “Whenever I remember that day, it sends shivers down my spine. My father dreamed of getting transferred from Alirajpur to Indore and sending me abroad for studies. Everything was planned, happiness was within reach. But if I had not insisted on horse riding that day, I might have been with him, and things could have been different.” Shot while helping others Sushil’s helpful nature ultimately cost him his life. According to eyewitnesses and family members, instead of fleeing during the attack, he stayed back to help others escape safely. He remained committed to helping people till his last breath. Austin recalls that his father was about to call him when someone nearby stopped him, saying the phone ringing could alert the attackers. Sushil helped others get to safety, but when his turn came, a bullet from the attackers ended all his dreams. Even after a year, that scene comes before the eyes A year on, Sushil’s wife Jennifer has not been able to come to terms with the loss and remains deeply traumatised. For Austin, the biggest challenge now is not his career, but supporting his mother through the grief. Jennifer continues to struggle with memories of the moment when her life was torn apart before her eyes. The house remains silent, and every sound brings back the terrifying echoes of gunfire. Those promises that remained unfulfilled Family members say Sushil often spoke about settling in Indore and living a peaceful life, while ensuring a bright future for his son. Tragically, the peace he sought in Kashmir ended with his death. Even after a year, the family continues to wait for justice. Sushil’s wife Jennifer is a teacher Jennifer works as a teacher in a government school in Khatipura. Their daughter Akanksha is a first-class officer at Bank of Baroda in Surat, while Austin is a badminton player. The family originally hails from Jobat. This is how the plan to go to Kashmir was made Austin said they had initially planned to travel elsewhere, but due to scheduling issues with his father’s job at LIC, they decided to celebrate Easter outside. They planned to visit his sister Akanksha in Surat and travel from there. The family first went from Indore to Surat and stayed there for two days. After discussing plans together, they decided all four would travel. They then flew from Surat to Chandigarh, did some shopping, and were excited about the trip. Austin said he recorded photos and videos throughout the journey, even capturing their boarding passes.