In the recent surge of biographical films and series, the spotlight has turned towards real-life incidents that shaped history. One such gripping narrative is the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814 in 1999, which has been critically acclaimed in the new Netflix series, “IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack.” This web series stars actor Vijay Verma, who portrays the brave Captain Devi Sharan, the pilot of the hijacked plane. Let’s delve into the true story of this harrowing event and its real-life hero.
The Kandahar Hijacking Incident
On December 24, 1999, Indian Airlines flight IC-814, carrying 176 passengers, took off from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, en route to New Delhi. At the helm was Captain Devi Sharan Sharma, then 37 years old. Unfortunately, the flight soon fell into the clutches of five masked terrorists who hijacked the aircraft.
Details of the Hijacking
The aircraft was diverted through various cities including Amritsar, Lahore, and Dubai, before ultimately landing in Kandahar, Afghanistan. This horrific incident lasted for seven days, marking one of the longest hijackings in aviation history.
The Ordeal of Hostages
Throughout this intense week, passengers were held hostage under severe conditions. The series intricately portrays the turmoil faced not only by the passengers but also by their families back home, the negotiations that ensued, and the conditions set by the terrorists for their release. Captain Devi Sharan’s ingenuity and courage to protect and uphold the morale of the hostages are central themes in the series.
Captain Devi Sharan: The Unsung Hero
In the midst of planning a holiday with his family after Christmas, Captain Sharan found himself in an unthinkable situation, where he had to summon extraordinary bravery to save 176 lives. He remained calm under pressure and kept the spirits of the passengers high, even when informing them about the hijacking.
Quick Thinking Under Pressure
One of the most critical moments came when the Lahore Air Traffic Control initially refused to grant landing permission. Utilizing his exceptional presence of mind, Captain Sharan dramatically simulated a crash landing scenario, which eventually led to the air traffic authorities allowing them to land safely. This strategy not only ensured their survival but also prevented further disaster.
A Hero’s Welcome
Upon their return to India, Captain Devi Sharan was hailed as a hero. He received accolades from the Indian government, the public, and his family for his pivotal role in saving 176 lives during such a perilous ordeal. His story, combined with his remarkable composure and pragmatic decision-making, left a lasting impression on the nation.
Flight Into Fear: The Book and Its Adaptation
Captain Sharan’s terrifying experiences during the hijacking are vividly captured in his book, “Flight Into Fear,” co-authored with Shrinjoy Chaudhury. This book served as significant inspiration for the Netflix series “IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack.” In the series, Vijay Verma’s portrayal of Captain Sharan is not just an act of remembrance but a tribute that emphasizes the courage and fortitude of real-life heroes.
Vijay Verma’s Connection with Reality
In discussing his role, Vijay Verma reflected on his honor of portraying Captain Sharan. He remarked on the profound impact of Captain Sharan’s humility and warmth, as well as the impressive mark left on him by the captain’s story. Verma even pointed out a scar that Captain Sharan bore from the hijackers’ gun, a powerful reminder of the ordeal. He has referred to him as a “real-life hero,” expressing immense respect for taking on the role of such an inspiring individual.
