Pahalgam terror: Techie Bharath Bhushan shielded family before being shot three times in his head

The harrowing account of Dr. Sujatha, wife of Bengaluru-based techie Bharath Bhushan, has emerged following the terror attack that claimed his life during a family trip to Kashmir.

While visiting a local tented bazaar to explore traditional Kashmiri attire, the family was caught in a sudden hail of gunfire. Initially mistaking the noise for something harmless, the family quickly realized the gravity of the situation. As panic ensued, Bharath attempted to shield his wife and their three-year-old son, comforting Sujatha with the words, “Don’t worry... stay strong,” even as danger closed in.

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Despite Bharath’s pleas and revelation that he was a father, a terrorist showed no mercy. He ordered Bharath to hand their son to Sujatha and then shot him three times in the head.

Sujatha recounted overhearing one of the terrorists accuse an elderly man of enjoying life while their children were dying. When the man responded helplessly, the terrorist shot him without hesitation.

Knowing her husband wouldn't survive, Sujatha, a doctor by profession, quickly grabbed their bags, phone, and Bharath’s wallet, and fled the scene with their child. She was assisted to safety by CRPF personnel who helped them down the hillside, away from the carnage.

Bharath’s body was flown back to Bengaluru and honored with a state funeral. “I ran with my child, constantly looking back,” Sujatha recalled, her voice steady with the weight of grief and courage.