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Ordinary individuals, extraordinary courage: Waris Khan and Arif Bamane’s rescue stories

CJP Team

In times of crisis, extraordinary courage often emerges from ordinary individuals, as exemplified by Waris Khan and Arif Bamane, two everyday heroes whose selfless actions saved countless lives. From a humble plumber in Madhya Pradesh who rescued 7 people trapped in an overturned car, to a seasoned boat leader in Mumbai who braved the waves to save 30 passengers after a tragic ferry collision, their stories highlight the power of humanity, quick thinking, and compassion in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Arif Bamane: The hero who braved the waves to save lives at the Gateway of India

Middle-aged Arif Bamane, a seasoned leader of a commercial MBT pilot boat, has emerged as a champion after his swift and selfless actions saved lives during a tragic collision near Mumbai’s Gateway of India on December 18, 2024. The incident, which occurred when a Navy speedboat undergoing engine trials collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal, resulted in 13 fatalities. Yet, thanks to Arif’s timely intervention, at least 30 lives, including those of a three-year-old girl and a newborn baby, were saved.

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On receiving a distress call, Arif and his team rushed to the accident site, traversing a distance typically covered in 18–20 minutes in just eight minutes. Describing the horrific scene to reporters, Arif said, “It was devastating. People were crying for help, some floating on the waves, while others struggled to stay afloat without life jackets. I saw a little girl lying motionless, with her lungs filled with water. I also rescued a newborn who wasn’t breathing and revived him by hanging him upside down.”

Arif, aboard his boat Porwa, a pilot vessel used for assisting larger ships in anchoring, led his team in pulling people out of the treacherous waves. While many at the Gateway of India stood as helpless spectators, praying for the victims, Arif jumped into action. His priority was the vulnerable—children and women—whom he dragged to safety, calmed with reassuring words, and provided life jackets to. 

The collision had caused panic among the 115 passengers aboard the ferry, many of whom were thrown into the water. Arif’s quick thinking and courage made the difference between life and death for several people. In one instance, he noticed a young girl being swept by strong waves. Without hesitation, Arif dove into the sea, rescued her, and performed life-saving measures to revive her. The girl’s mother, who witnessed Arif’s relentless efforts, called him a divine saviour.

Arif’s selfless rescue extended to a new-born baby who was not breathing when he was pulled from the water. Using his presence of mind, Arif held the infant upside down to drain water from his lungs, successfully resuscitating him. “I and my team must have saved 25–30 lives,” Arif said as per AwaztheVoice, reflecting on the rescue operation that unfolded amidst chaos.

As the accident unfolded, it became clear that Arif’s prompt response was instrumental in mitigating the scale of the tragedy. His bravery and leadership have been widely recognised, with social media and offline platforms hailing him as a hero. Passengers who owe their survival to Arif have described his intervention as nothing short of miraculous.

On December 24, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray had also felicitated Arif Bamane. 

Arif Bamane’s story is a powerful reminder that true heroes often emerge from the most unexpected places. His actions on that fateful day demonstrated not just immense courage but also an unwavering commitment to helping others in their time of need. For the lives he saved and the hope he rekindled, Arif stands as a beacon of humanity amidst the waves of despair.

An ordinary plumber becomes a state hero: Waris Khan’s extraordinary tale of bravery

Waris Khan, a humble plumber from Beaura in Madhya Pradesh’s Rajgarh District, has risen to prominence after a selfless act of heroism that saved 7 lives. His story, a testament to courage and humanity, has resonated far beyond his small town, capturing the attention of the state and even earning praise from the chief minister.

A 12-year veteran of municipal service, Waris Khan’s life had been marked by struggles. After being dismissed from his temporary job as a plumber, he juggled multiple menial roles, including working as a bus cleaner and a labourer, to support his family. His journey, however, took a remarkable turn on the morning of November 13, when his courage and quick thinking made him a hero.

That day, Waris was travelling on his motorbike from Beaura to Banaganj along the busy AB Road Highway. As he rode, he witnessed a terrifying accident: a car en route from Shivpuri to Bhopal had overturned due to a brake failure. The crash left 7 people trapped inside the vehicle, with its doors jammed shut and the passengers helpless.

Without a moment’s hesitation, Waris pulled over and rushed to the scene. Armed with nothing but his resolve, he began smashing the car’s windows with his bare hands. His priority was the children, whom he rescued first, followed by the women and finally the men. His determination ensured that all 7 passengers were freed from the wreckage before further harm could come to them.

This selfless act was carried out without any expectation of reward or recognition. Waris, who does not use a smartphone or social media, had no way of publicising his actions. Yet, news of his heroism quickly spread, capturing the attention of both the media and local authorities.

His bravery eventually reached Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who personally commended him through a video call. During their conversation, the chief minister announced a cash reward of one lakh rupees for Waris. However, true to his modest nature, Waris politely declined the monetary prize. Instead, he made a heartfelt request: the reinstatement of his old job at the municipality, which he had lost years earlier.

Deeply moved by Waris’s humility and sincerity, the chief minister promised to fulfil his request. Additionally, Waris was honoured with the district’s first “Good Samaritan” award under a newly launched state scheme. Rajgarh Collector Dr Girish Kumar Mishra presented him with a cheque for Rs 5,000, praising his bravery and altruism.

“What Waris Khan has done exemplifies selflessness and humanity,” Dr Mishra had remarked, as per Clarion India. “His actions remind us that true courage does not require wealth or status, only a willingness to help others in their time of need.”

The recognition has not stopped there. Waris Khan’s story has inspired people across Madhya Pradesh, with media outlets, government officials, and private organisations stepping forward to celebrate his extraordinary act. The plumber-turned-hero has become a symbol of how ordinary individuals, through courage and compassion, can rise to extraordinary heights.

Waris Khan’s heroics are a powerful reminder that heroism is not confined to the privileged or the trained. It often emerges in moments of crisis, from people whose actions reflect the best of humanity. His story serves as an enduring message that kindness and bravery can transform lives, inspiring communities to come together and appreciate the everyday heroes among us.

In saving 7 lives that day, Waris not only prevented a tragedy but also rekindled hope and faith in the strength of the human spirit. His tale resonates as a beacon of what it means to be a true Good Samaritan, proving that courage and compassion can indeed make the world a better place.

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