Daijiworld Media Network – Shimla
Shimla, Jul 11: Amidst the heart-wrenching destruction caused by cloudbursts, flash floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, a tale of extraordinary courage has emerged from a small village — where a father-daughter duo braved nature’s fury and saved lives during the tragic night of June 30.
The catastrophic event, which killed at least 15 people and left 27 others missing, brought untold devastation to several parts of Mandi district. But amid the chaos and despair, Bharat Raj and his teenage daughter Tanuja stood tall as symbols of human grit and resilience.
As gushing waters and debris ravaged homes, nearly 20 terrified villagers rushed to seek refuge in Bharat Raj’s house. However, soon after, their shelter too came under siege as torrents of debris broke through.
With little time to think and danger looming, Bharat Raj sprang into action. Along with his daughter Tanuja, he attempted to protect his family and those who had taken shelter. Bharat managed to rescue his sister Twinkle, mother Mansa Devi, grandfather Hari Singh, and neighbour Radhu Devi from under the debris — showcasing exceptional bravery.
Tanuja, however, was swept a few metres away by the ferocious currents and got stuck chest-deep in the debris. Villagers feared the worst. But defying all odds, she held on to a wooden log, struggled against the force, and miraculously pulled herself out to safety.
The emotional reunion of Tanuja with her family left many in tears.
Currently, the rescued family is staying at a temporary shelter at Bagsyad School. Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur visited the family and praised their bravery, especially highlighting Tanuja's presence of mind and courage.
Speaking to reporters, Tanuja said the family has lost everything and urged the government to support her education and ensure the rehabilitation of her family.
Jai Ram Thakur, who hails from the same Seraj constituency that bore the brunt of the disaster, revealed that damages in the region have crossed Rs 500 crore and may exceed Rs 1,000 crore. He also disclosed that his own ancestral home in village Tandi suffered cracks, while half of his orchard was washed away.
Meanwhile, Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi confirmed that due to severe damage, classes of the Thunag College of Horticulture and Forestry, with over 300 students, will be temporarily shifted to Sundernagar.
According to state officials, the calamity has affected 1,184 houses, 710 cow sheds, and 201 shops, while nearly 780 livestock have perished.
Even as the state continues to reel under nature's fury, the story of Bharat Raj and Tanuja stands out as a beacon of hope and courage in the face of overwhelming loss.