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Unbroken: The Brussels Terror Attack Survivor
On the fateful day of 22 March 2016, Nidhi Chaphekar was assigned to operate a flight from Brussels to Newark. One of the most shocking terror attacks took place at the Brussels airport the same day, killing around thirty-two people and injuring over three hundred. Nidhi was gravely injured and her photograph became the face of the terror attack. That photo has been recently voted as the most iconic photo in Belgian history.
Navigating through Nidhi’s life and career as a flight attendant, this heart-wrenching story opens with the horrifying incident that shook the lives of all those caught in its vortex. The aftermath of intense trauma and rigorous medical treatment sees Nidhi emerging as a real-life superhero. She survived despite sustaining more than twenty percent burns, multiple fractures, crushed bones, ruptured eardrums and being in a state of induced coma for twenty three days.
Narrated in the form of a daily journal, painstakingly penned by her, this true story of grit and willpower will reach out to millions of people with its enduring message of the infinite ability of the human spirit to triumph against all odds.
Navigating through Nidhi’s life and career as a flight attendant, this heart-wrenching story opens with the horrifying incident that shook the lives of all those caught in its vortex. The aftermath of intense trauma and rigorous medical treatment sees Nidhi emerging as a real-life superhero. She survived despite sustaining more than twenty percent burns, multiple fractures, crushed bones, ruptured eardrums and being in a state of induced coma for twenty three days.
Narrated in the form of a daily journal, painstakingly penned by her, this true story of grit and willpower will reach out to millions of people with its enduring message of the infinite ability of the human spirit to triumph against all odds.
354 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 22, 2022
Exactly 6 years back on this day (22nd March, 2016), one of the most shocking terror attack took place at the Brussels Airport. The twin suicide bombings killed 32 people and injured more than 340 people.
Book - Unbroken: The Brussels Terror Attack Survivor
Author- @nidhichaphekar
Genre - Memoir
Nidhi Chaphekar, a cabin crew manager with the Jet Airways was gravely injured and is the survivor of this terror attack. The photo taken of her after the attack inadvertently made her the face of the blast across globe.
UNBROKEN is a true story of Nidhi Chaphekar and is narrated in form of daily journal.
_______
#whathappened On 26 march 2016, Jet Airways was to operate its last flight to the US. The flight pattern was Mumbai- Brussels- Newark - Brussels - Mumbai. Nidhi wasn't assigned this flight but she badly wanted to be on this flight since it would be the last to US. On 19th March 2016, she contacted her department and got assigned on it. On 20th March she was on the flight from Mumbai to Brussels. On 21 march she landed in Brussels. On 22nd march in the morning she left from her hotel for Brussels airport and reached the airport at 0755 hrs when the blast happened.
______
In this book, Nidhi narrates horrific incidents of the blast, what she went through ( intense trauma, months of hospitalization, crushed bones, multiple fractures, more than 20% burns, ruptured eardrums and being in a state of induced coma for 23 days) and her long journey of recovery.
______
The book had me in tears right from the starting. The description (the way she describes the bombings and everything) and looking at the pictures brought tears to my eyes. There is so much of emotions oozing out of the words. I couldn't imagine what Nidhi went through. I was literally shocked after reading everything. Her story is so powerful and inspiring with full of positive vibes and her 'never give up' attitude. Really she is one strong women no wonder she is being called Tigress Nidhi.
______
Through her story she sends out a message to the world to do best for yourself and those around you. And most importantly to think positive in every situation.
♥️
Book - Unbroken: The Brussels Terror Attack Survivor
Author- @nidhichaphekar
Genre - Memoir
Nidhi Chaphekar, a cabin crew manager with the Jet Airways was gravely injured and is the survivor of this terror attack. The photo taken of her after the attack inadvertently made her the face of the blast across globe.
UNBROKEN is a true story of Nidhi Chaphekar and is narrated in form of daily journal.
_______
#whathappened On 26 march 2016, Jet Airways was to operate its last flight to the US. The flight pattern was Mumbai- Brussels- Newark - Brussels - Mumbai. Nidhi wasn't assigned this flight but she badly wanted to be on this flight since it would be the last to US. On 19th March 2016, she contacted her department and got assigned on it. On 20th March she was on the flight from Mumbai to Brussels. On 21 march she landed in Brussels. On 22nd march in the morning she left from her hotel for Brussels airport and reached the airport at 0755 hrs when the blast happened.
______
In this book, Nidhi narrates horrific incidents of the blast, what she went through ( intense trauma, months of hospitalization, crushed bones, multiple fractures, more than 20% burns, ruptured eardrums and being in a state of induced coma for 23 days) and her long journey of recovery.
______
The book had me in tears right from the starting. The description (the way she describes the bombings and everything) and looking at the pictures brought tears to my eyes. There is so much of emotions oozing out of the words. I couldn't imagine what Nidhi went through. I was literally shocked after reading everything. Her story is so powerful and inspiring with full of positive vibes and her 'never give up' attitude. Really she is one strong women no wonder she is being called Tigress Nidhi.
______
Through her story she sends out a message to the world to do best for yourself and those around you. And most importantly to think positive in every situation.
♥️
April 13, 2020
The existence, experience within and beyond the transcendent of reality, outreaching the realms of horrors; isn't absorbed merely in narration.
It has to be felt.
The narrative here shall melt those boundaries. The narrative here shall make you feel.
Unbroken, is the spirit, the zeal of Nidhi Chaphekar. Transversing through the Brussels attack, narrating not just her story, her condition, her enigmatic perception of reality; unbroken is the raw blossom, in the heart of such chaos, eliminating all doubts, reliving the believe, that hope shall find a way, that strength shall endure all drakness, when nothing does. .
.
Author: @nidhichaphekar
Publishers: @amaryllispublishing
Language: English
My rating: 3.8/5
It has to be felt.
The narrative here shall melt those boundaries. The narrative here shall make you feel.
Unbroken, is the spirit, the zeal of Nidhi Chaphekar. Transversing through the Brussels attack, narrating not just her story, her condition, her enigmatic perception of reality; unbroken is the raw blossom, in the heart of such chaos, eliminating all doubts, reliving the believe, that hope shall find a way, that strength shall endure all drakness, when nothing does. .
.
Author: @nidhichaphekar
Publishers: @amaryllispublishing
Language: English
My rating: 3.8/5
August 23, 2023
"Unbroken: The Brussels Terror Attack Survivor" by Nidhi Chaphekar is a poignant account that delves into the life-altering events of March 22, 2016, when a terror attack at Brussels airport left Nidhi Chaphekar severely injured and her photograph as the face of the tragedy. The book takes readers on a journey through Nidhi's resilience and her remarkable recovery, highlighting the indomitable spirit of the human soul.
The book chronicles Nidhi Chaphekar's harrowing experience as a cabin crew manager on that fateful flight from Brussels to Newark. It recounts the terror attack's immediate aftermath, Nidhi's severe injuries, and her arduous journey towards recovery. Presented in the form of a daily journal, the narrative provides an intimate look into Nidhi's thoughts, emotions, and struggles as she battles physical and emotional traumas.
Nidhi Chaphekar's writing style is deeply personal and authentic, making readers feel connected to her journey. Her journal entries convey raw emotions, capturing the highs and lows of her recovery. The writing is both engaging and heartfelt, drawing readers into her world and allowing them to experience her pain, hope, and determination.
The central character, Nidhi Chaphekar, emerges as a symbol of strength and resilience. The supporting cast, including medical professionals, family, and friends, play a crucial role in her recovery. The book also delves into broader ideas of human endurance, the power of community, and the ability to find light even in the darkest moments.
The narrative unfolds chronologically, offering a detailed account of the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and Nidhi's subsequent journey through medical treatment and recovery. This linear structure helps build suspense, keeps the reader engaged, and showcases the remarkable transformation of Nidhi's life.
The book's primary themes include resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit. It conveys the message that adversity can be overcome through sheer determination and the support of loved ones. Nidhi's story also highlights the importance of unity and compassion in the face of tragedy.
"Unbroken" carries a profound emotional impact, evoking empathy and admiration for Nidhi's courage. Her struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, inspiring readers to reflect on their own challenges and find inspiration to persevere.
The book's strength lies in its authenticity and Nidhi's ability to convey her experiences with honesty. The journal format allows for an intimate connection with her emotions. However, some readers might crave a deeper exploration of certain themes and characters.
"Unbroken: The Brussels Terror Attack Survivor" is a remarkable testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity. Nidhi Chaphekar's story is a source of inspiration and courage, offering readers a profound lesson in resilience and hope.
In "Unbroken," Nidhi Chaphekar's compelling narrative showcases her journey from devastation to triumph, embodying the human spirit's ability to rise above even the most harrowing circumstances. The book serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging readers to find strength in their own struggles and embrace life's challenges with unwavering determination.
The book chronicles Nidhi Chaphekar's harrowing experience as a cabin crew manager on that fateful flight from Brussels to Newark. It recounts the terror attack's immediate aftermath, Nidhi's severe injuries, and her arduous journey towards recovery. Presented in the form of a daily journal, the narrative provides an intimate look into Nidhi's thoughts, emotions, and struggles as she battles physical and emotional traumas.
Nidhi Chaphekar's writing style is deeply personal and authentic, making readers feel connected to her journey. Her journal entries convey raw emotions, capturing the highs and lows of her recovery. The writing is both engaging and heartfelt, drawing readers into her world and allowing them to experience her pain, hope, and determination.
The central character, Nidhi Chaphekar, emerges as a symbol of strength and resilience. The supporting cast, including medical professionals, family, and friends, play a crucial role in her recovery. The book also delves into broader ideas of human endurance, the power of community, and the ability to find light even in the darkest moments.
The narrative unfolds chronologically, offering a detailed account of the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and Nidhi's subsequent journey through medical treatment and recovery. This linear structure helps build suspense, keeps the reader engaged, and showcases the remarkable transformation of Nidhi's life.
The book's primary themes include resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit. It conveys the message that adversity can be overcome through sheer determination and the support of loved ones. Nidhi's story also highlights the importance of unity and compassion in the face of tragedy.
"Unbroken" carries a profound emotional impact, evoking empathy and admiration for Nidhi's courage. Her struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, inspiring readers to reflect on their own challenges and find inspiration to persevere.
The book's strength lies in its authenticity and Nidhi's ability to convey her experiences with honesty. The journal format allows for an intimate connection with her emotions. However, some readers might crave a deeper exploration of certain themes and characters.
"Unbroken: The Brussels Terror Attack Survivor" is a remarkable testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity. Nidhi Chaphekar's story is a source of inspiration and courage, offering readers a profound lesson in resilience and hope.
In "Unbroken," Nidhi Chaphekar's compelling narrative showcases her journey from devastation to triumph, embodying the human spirit's ability to rise above even the most harrowing circumstances. The book serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging readers to find strength in their own struggles and embrace life's challenges with unwavering determination.
October 16, 2020
22nd March 2016: A series of explosions shook the Brussels airport and metro station, killing around thirty-two people and injuring over three hundred.
In hours there was a widely circulated photograph of Nidhi Chaphekar, severely injured and with a ghastly expression, which became the defining image of the attacks. And here's the story of that woman. In this book she writes a heartfelt account of the events that transpired after that fateful day.
I remember following the news on this incident closely once I got to know about the injured Jet Airways cabin crew member; having traveled in their airlines a number of times it somehow felt personal. Only after reading this book I realized I've had an incomplete picture all along. Nidhi Chaphekar's road to recovery was a long and hard task; while I knew she survived the blast I wasn't aware of the multiple fractures, burns, and crushed bones she had survived, and neither did I know she was in a state of medically induced coma for twenty-three days.
I thought it was extremely courageous of the author to share her story and relive those moments of pain and agony. Her writing was truly emotive and sincere; I particularly enjoyed all that she'd mentioned about her family and how supportive they were in the time she needed them the most. She doesn't hold back, whether it's on talking about how she feared she wouldn't be able to resume her work which demands one to be presentable at all times, or about her struggles in the hospital. The book starts at a time before the blasts and ends with a ceremony held in remembrance of the people who lost their lives around a year later; the author gives credit to everyone who helped her or had an impact on her during that period.
As someone with a crippling fear of flights, I've always admired members of the cabin crew for their calm and poise in tough situations and reading about Nidhi's determination and willpower only made me respect her even more.
Here is a positive story which is much needed in these crazy times. It's not an easy read as it will most probably move you to tears, but it would definitely give readers hope that this too shall pass. A must-read!
In hours there was a widely circulated photograph of Nidhi Chaphekar, severely injured and with a ghastly expression, which became the defining image of the attacks. And here's the story of that woman. In this book she writes a heartfelt account of the events that transpired after that fateful day.
I remember following the news on this incident closely once I got to know about the injured Jet Airways cabin crew member; having traveled in their airlines a number of times it somehow felt personal. Only after reading this book I realized I've had an incomplete picture all along. Nidhi Chaphekar's road to recovery was a long and hard task; while I knew she survived the blast I wasn't aware of the multiple fractures, burns, and crushed bones she had survived, and neither did I know she was in a state of medically induced coma for twenty-three days.
I thought it was extremely courageous of the author to share her story and relive those moments of pain and agony. Her writing was truly emotive and sincere; I particularly enjoyed all that she'd mentioned about her family and how supportive they were in the time she needed them the most. She doesn't hold back, whether it's on talking about how she feared she wouldn't be able to resume her work which demands one to be presentable at all times, or about her struggles in the hospital. The book starts at a time before the blasts and ends with a ceremony held in remembrance of the people who lost their lives around a year later; the author gives credit to everyone who helped her or had an impact on her during that period.
As someone with a crippling fear of flights, I've always admired members of the cabin crew for their calm and poise in tough situations and reading about Nidhi's determination and willpower only made me respect her even more.
Here is a positive story which is much needed in these crazy times. It's not an easy read as it will most probably move you to tears, but it would definitely give readers hope that this too shall pass. A must-read!
July 7, 2020
‘Unbroken’ is a courageous tale of a woman called Nidhi who survived and became the face of the deadliest act of terrorism in Belgium's history 'the Brussels attack'. Nidhi was just another normal woman living her life to the fullest with a loving husband, 2 adorable kids, and dreaming about traveling around the world in her air hostess job until one day, her life turns upside down and shatters completely when she meets with the attack. What happens later is truly heart wrenching and inspirational. This book is written in such a way that it made me feel like Nidhi herself was sitting next to me and narrating her life’s story.
What I loved most was that even though it was so hard to remember everything that happened on that fateful day, she narrated the attack to a level of perfection, and I was in tears. It made me feel like I am living and getting attacked by the terrorists. Not just that, even when she was taken to the hospital to get medically treated, I was with her going through all that extreme struggle and pain she went through and when one day she finally stood on her legs and was able to walk after months of treatment I was the happiest kid.
Nidhi for me is that woman who taught me how to be positive and take everything life throws at you with a smile on the face and find meaning for life. She taught me how important it is to believe in oneself and learn that anything is possible if you take control over your will power and most importantly to know that ‘it’s all in our mind’. I wish everybody gets to read her survival story through this book and learn that everything that life throws at us is only to discover our strengths to get over it, instead of showing our weakness. Recommending this book to everyone!
What I loved most was that even though it was so hard to remember everything that happened on that fateful day, she narrated the attack to a level of perfection, and I was in tears. It made me feel like I am living and getting attacked by the terrorists. Not just that, even when she was taken to the hospital to get medically treated, I was with her going through all that extreme struggle and pain she went through and when one day she finally stood on her legs and was able to walk after months of treatment I was the happiest kid.
Nidhi for me is that woman who taught me how to be positive and take everything life throws at you with a smile on the face and find meaning for life. She taught me how important it is to believe in oneself and learn that anything is possible if you take control over your will power and most importantly to know that ‘it’s all in our mind’. I wish everybody gets to read her survival story through this book and learn that everything that life throws at us is only to discover our strengths to get over it, instead of showing our weakness. Recommending this book to everyone!
June 9, 2020
A few days back, I read a powerful tale of survival, perseverance and a will to live a life that was almost taken from her hand in the worst terror attack in Belgian history. This a tale of a harrowing ordeal of Nidhi Chaphekar, a former flight attendant with Jet Airways, who was one among many gravely injured in that deadliest blast.
Unbroken by Nidhi Chapekar
Nidhi takes us to a journey from being almost alive to how she recovers her health through her sheer will power in her memoir. Each turn of page unfolds her story that equal parts horrified me and equal parts inspired me. I could literally feel her trauma, when she was lying there and trying to scream in a feeble voice for help. And the trauma of her family members helplessness throughout the time she was in Coma.
What really linked me on a personal level with Nidhi was her desire to walk again, without any support. And walk again, she did. Setting targets for her that were tough, yet she achieved them; enduring pain and sometimes hopelessness.
While reading, kept reminding me a lot of times of my Mom’s strong will and confidence. If it wasn’t for my mom, I wouldn’t be here living a privileged life. Anyhoo, despite not being a writer, Nidhi has done quite a good job of narrating her life story that kept me on engrossed throughout.
So let’s not spoil the book for you, read it to learn more about Nidhi’s story. I highly recommend Unbroken by Nidhi Chaphekar. This book will inspire you and will give you hope to never give up, come what may. Even in darker times.
A 4 out 5 star from me.
Unbroken by Nidhi Chapekar
Nidhi takes us to a journey from being almost alive to how she recovers her health through her sheer will power in her memoir. Each turn of page unfolds her story that equal parts horrified me and equal parts inspired me. I could literally feel her trauma, when she was lying there and trying to scream in a feeble voice for help. And the trauma of her family members helplessness throughout the time she was in Coma.
What really linked me on a personal level with Nidhi was her desire to walk again, without any support. And walk again, she did. Setting targets for her that were tough, yet she achieved them; enduring pain and sometimes hopelessness.
While reading, kept reminding me a lot of times of my Mom’s strong will and confidence. If it wasn’t for my mom, I wouldn’t be here living a privileged life. Anyhoo, despite not being a writer, Nidhi has done quite a good job of narrating her life story that kept me on engrossed throughout.
So let’s not spoil the book for you, read it to learn more about Nidhi’s story. I highly recommend Unbroken by Nidhi Chaphekar. This book will inspire you and will give you hope to never give up, come what may. Even in darker times.
A 4 out 5 star from me.
March 12, 2020
Here's much love and more power to @nidhichaphekar for her grit and bringing this amazing book into existence.💫
This book is the memoir, a raw and completely hitting to the core emotions spilled in pages. Nidhi Chaphekar, the a cabin crew manager, was assigned a flight from Brussels to Newark. In the Brussel airport one of the most dreadful terror attack took place injuring over 300 people and killing 30+ people. Nidhi was the survivor more like a warrior, gravely injured. The trauma of her pains that this incident caused has been inscribed in this book and people need to read it. The triumph amidst the dismay needs to be heard.✨
This book is the memoir, a raw and completely hitting to the core emotions spilled in pages. Nidhi Chaphekar, the a cabin crew manager, was assigned a flight from Brussels to Newark. In the Brussel airport one of the most dreadful terror attack took place injuring over 300 people and killing 30+ people. Nidhi was the survivor more like a warrior, gravely injured. The trauma of her pains that this incident caused has been inscribed in this book and people need to read it. The triumph amidst the dismay needs to be heard.✨
May 24, 2020
A testament on how not to write a book. One of the most horribly written book ever. I made the mistake of judging a book by its cover. Completey disappointing. The author comes across as boastful instead of being inspirational. Read the review below: https://www.dailyo.in/variety/book-re...
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews