Hyderabad: What began as an ordinary workday for Hyderabad-born cab driver Rehmat Pasha turned into an extraordinary act of courage during the deadly shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach in December 2025. While the attack claimed at least 15 lives and shocked the world, Pasha risked his own life to rescue victims trapped in the chaos, helping save an estimated 18 to 20 people. In recognition of his bravery, the Australian government has granted him permanent residency, while his actions are set to be commemorated at the Sydney Museum.
Heroic response during deadly attack
The shooting at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, unfolded during a busy evening when members of Sydney’s Jewish community had gathered to celebrate Hanukkah.
Pasha, 37, had just dropped off a passenger and was preparing for his next trip when he heard loud noises near the beach.
Initially mistaking the sounds for fireworks, he soon realised they were gunshots after spotting two armed attackers firing from a bridge about 100 metres away.
As panic spread across the area, people ran in all directions seeking safety. Despite the grave danger, Pasha chose to remain at the scene and assist those who had been shot or injured.
Rescued victims under heavy gunfire
Instead of fleeing, Pasha rushed towards the injured and attempted to save lives.
He first tried to help a man who had suffered a gunshot wound to the neck, attempting to stop the bleeding. Despite his efforts, the victim succumbed to his injuries.
Determined to help others, Pasha began moving injured people behind trees, benches and nearby structures to shield them from the attackers.
He continued rescuing victims while carefully taking cover himself, ensuring that those who could still be saved were moved away from the line of fire.
Although the attack lasted only a few minutes, Pasha later recalled that it felt much longer as he struggled to save as many people as possible.
Comforting survivors amid tragedy
After the gunfire ended, Pasha remained at the scene to assist emergency responders.
Before ambulances arrived, he comforted injured victims, assessed those requiring immediate medical attention and reassured terrified survivors.
One incident that left a lasting impact involved an 85-year-old woman who had been shot in both legs.
As she cried in pain, asking why such a tragedy had happened to her, Pasha comforted her by saying she would return the following year to celebrate Hanukkah at the same place.
He later said that those few words briefly helped her forget her pain amid the trauma.
Assisted rescue teams for hours
Once medical personnel reached the beach, Pasha continued helping rescue teams for nearly three hours.
He assisted in carrying injured victims from the beach to waiting ambulances, often using surfboards as makeshift stretchers.
Among those he helped were injured police personnel and members of the local community who had sustained gunshot wounds.
His quick actions are believed to have contributed to saving between 18 and 20 lives, according to those associated with the rescue efforts.
Trauma followed acts of bravery
Despite being hailed as a hero, Pasha said the psychological impact of the attack continues to affect him.
Doctors diagnosed him with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and he was declared temporarily unfit for work.
He said disturbing memories of the shooting still return in his dreams, including images of victims, bloodshed and frightened children searching for their parents.
The emotional burden has remained even as he receives appreciation and recognition for his courage.
Australian government recognises courage
The Australian government extended financial assistance, counselling and medical support to Pasha following the attack.
In recognition of his exceptional bravery, authorities granted him permanent residency, allowing his wife and three children, who currently live in Hyderabad’s Mehdipatnam, to join him in Australia.
His cap, worn during the rescue operation, will also be displayed at the Sydney Museum as a tribute to his courage.
Pasha has additionally been nominated for several government bravery awards, while Uber, for whom he was driving at the time, has also recognised his contribution.
Humble despite international recognition
Although his actions have transformed his life, Pasha remains modest about the recognition he has received.
He said he continues to stay in touch with several survivors and their families, many of whom regularly invite him to community gatherings and prayer meetings.
Whenever they meet, survivors express their gratitude through hugs, blessings and emotional conversations.
Despite the honours, Pasha says he often reflects on whether he could have saved even more lives.
Conclusion
Rehmat Pasha’s courage during one of Australia’s deadliest attacks has earned him international recognition, but he says the memories of that day remain deeply painful. His selfless actions not only saved numerous lives but also demonstrated extraordinary humanity in the face of unimaginable danger. While Australia has honoured him for his bravery, Pasha continues to carry the emotional scars of a tragedy that changed his life forever.