New Delhi

Riazuddin Mansoori, the South Delhi shopkeeper who sacrificed mattresses worth nearly Rs 2 lakh to helped save at least 12 people trapped in a blazing hotel in Malviya Nagar, is being honoured by several organisations for his extraordinary act of courage and humanity. Yet, Mansoori insists he merely did what any human being should do in such a situation.

His quick thinking helped save several lives during the devastating fire that claimed 21 lives and left around 40 others injured. Despite widespread praise, Mansoori has repeatedly stated that he acted solely out of a sense of duty towards fellow human beings and never expected any reward or compensation.

“I did not do this for money, recognition, or personal gain,” he said. “I only did what humanity demanded at that moment.”

Mansoori's mattress shop is located near the hotel where the fire broke out. As flames engulfed the building and panicked guests began jumping from upper floors to escape, he rushed to action. Realising the danger faced by those trapped inside, he and others dragged mattresses, blankets, and bedding from his shop and spread them across the road to cushion the fall of those jumping from the building.

His presence of mind is credited with helping save the lives of around a dozen people. In the process, however, he suffered losses worth several lakhs of rupees.

The delegation of lawyers also presented Mansoori with a cash award of Rs 1 lakh.

Delhi's Malviya Nagar fire incident Riyazuddin Mansoori, who helped save lives by placing mattresses and quilts below the building for people forced to jump, has been awarded ₹1 lakh for his bravery. He said he acted out of humanity, not for recognition. ❤️🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/0dU4Qbqkmk

— JanHit Voice (@HJP2029_2036) June 7, 2026

His selfless act has drawn admiration from across society. A group of lawyers from sardar Patel deva Dal visited Mansoori to honour him. Advocate Virendra Kasana described his actions as a shining example of compassion and public service.

“Riazuddin has shown society the true meaning of humanity,” Kasana said. “Without a second thought for his own losses, he used everything available in his shop to save people trapped in the burning hotel. His sacrifice, courage and compassion will always be remembered.”

Recalling the incident, Mansoori said the cries for help coming from inside the hotel left no room for hesitation.

“The situation was extremely dangerous. We could hear people screaming for help,” he said. “We immediately brought out all the mattresses and other materials from our shop and spread them on the road. At such a time, humanity demanded that we do whatever we could to save lives. We only did our duty.”

Although he has declined to seek compensation for his losses, many social, religious and charitable organisations have stepped forward to recognise his humanitarian service.

JIH leaders offering cheque to Riazuddin Mansoori

Among them is Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Delhi, which presented him with a special award of Rs 1 lakh. Organisation leaders clarified that the amount was not intended as compensation but as a gesture of appreciation for his exemplary commitment to humanity.

A delegation led by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Delhi Ameer Halqa Muhammad Salimullah Khan visited the accident site, met affected families and honoured Mansoori for his bravery.

“Riazuddin Mansoori demonstrated that in moments of crisis, divisions of religion, caste and community become meaningless,” Khan said. “The true identity of a human being lies in compassion and humanity. At a time when forces that seek to divide society are active, people like him represent India's shared civilisational values and spirit of coexistence.”

He added that Mansoori's selflessness and dedication to serving others should be regarded as among the highest examples of public service.

Members of the delegation described his actions as inspiring and exemplary, saying that such acts strengthen mutual trust, social harmony and compassion within society.

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Even after receiving widespread recognition, Mansoori remains humble. He continues to maintain that he simply acted to save lives and does not deserve special praise. Yet for many, his courage and selflessness stand as a powerful reminder that humanity often shines brightest in moments of crisis.