26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks: 1st Anniversary

One year on, and ceremonies are being held across the city to mark the 1st anniversary of the deadliest terrorist attack to hit Mumbai. The attacks lasted for three long days, in which 165 people lost their lives, while 9 terrorists were killed. Muhammed Ajmal Qasab was the lone surviving terrorist and was captured alive, but not before he did considerable damage to property and lives. He is now currently facing trial. The coordinated attacks took place at the CST railway station (formerly known as Victoria Terminus), the Taj Hotel, Trident Hotel, and the Nariman House Jewish Community Centre.

Many groups across the city already held vigils on Wednesday. In south Mumbai, diplomats and local faith leaders attended a service that was held at a synagogue, and candles were lit in remembrance and respect for the victims. Scores of people were painting slogans on a wall in south Mumbai, a place where the attacks were mainly concentrated. One such slogan read, "We want to make sure 26/11 is not just forgotten." Some of the functions planned for Thursday are the inauguration of a memorial, a parade by the city police, and a candle-lit prayer service. A large candle-lit prayer service has been planned at the Gateway of India, which is bang opposite the Taj Hotel, one of the places of attack. Services are also being held at the other sites of the attack.

The attacks, thought to have been well-planned in Pakistan, meant suspension of peace talks that were on between India and Pakistan. Since then there has just been accusations and counter claims by both countries regarding the attacks, and Pakistan's commitment in curbing terrorism that is nurtured on its soil. The Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said that talks between the two neighbors will not restart until the Mumbai attack suspects were brought to justice.

Read related articles on Mumbai Terror Attacks and 26/11 Terror Attack: A Year After.