Life has never been the same: Shiksha Arora recalls surviving Westgate attack 13 years later
By Valerian Khakayi, September 21, 2026Thirteen years after surviving the Westgate Mall terrorist attack in Nairobi, media personality Shiksha Arora has reflected on the traumatic experience that changed her life forever.
Arora took to social media on Mondya, September 21, 2026, to remember the victims of the attack and mark 13 years since the tragic incident.
“13 years ago, at this very day, I was at the Westgate Mall when we were attacked by the terrorists. Life has never been the same ever since, and I truly thank God for being able to tell the story, to be able to live 13 years on and do amazing things I have managed in my life,” Arora said.
She described being alive 13 years later as a blessing and an opportunity to live life again after being given a second chance.
“I am blessed and so lucky to do life again; I got a second chance at life since others did not make it out alive,” Arora added.
Remembering Westgate victims
The Westgate Mall attack took place on September 21, 2013, when terrorists attacked the shopping centre in Nairobi, killing and injuring scores of people.
For Arora, the anniversary remains an important moment to honour those who lost their lives and reflect on how the incident affected survivors and their families.
“On the 21st of September 2013, what started as an ordinary Saturday at Westgate changed the lives of so many people forever,” she recalled.
“Lives were lost. Families lost loved ones. Survivors were left carrying memories that are still so vivid, memories that have changed us forever!”
Arora said the pain remains part of Kenya’s history but urged people not to forget those who died.
“So today, I just want to remember every single person who lost their life that day. It’s a painful part of our history, but I think it’s important that we continue to remember,” she added.
13 years after Westgate attack
Reflecting on her journey since the attack, Arora expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue living and pursuing her dreams.
She concluded her remembrance by honouring those who died in the attack.
“Life 13 years on, after the Westgate Mall terrorist attack in Nairobi as a survivor. May all the souls of those that we lost continue resting in peace,” Arora stated.
The 13th anniversary has once again brought memories of the Westgate attack to the fore, as survivors and Kenyans continue to remember the lives lost on September 21, 2013.