The Neerja Bhanot incident refers to the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 on September 5, 1986, and the heroic actions of Neerja Bhanot, the head purser of the flight. Neerja Bhanot’s bravery, quick thinking, and selflessness during the crisis not only saved many lives but also made her an international hero and a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
Early Life and Career of Neerja Bhanot
Neerja Bhanot was born on September 7, 1963, in Chandigarh, India. She pursued her early education in Mumbai and later graduated from St. Xavier’s College. Bhanot joined Pan Am as a flight attendant in 1985 after a brief stint modeling. She quickly rose to the position of head purser, demonstrating her dedication and skill in her profession.
The Hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73
On September 5, 1986, Pan Am Flight 73, with 360 passengers and crew on board, was hijacked by four armed terrorists from the Abu Nidal Organization at Karachi airport in Pakistan. The terrorists intended to use the airplane to release their comrades imprisoned in Cyprus and the United States.
Neerja Bhanot’s Heroic Actions
As the head purser, Neerja took charge from the moment the hijackers boarded the aircraft. She alerted the cockpit crew, which allowed them to escape and prevent the plane from being forcibly flown. Her presence of mind thwarted the hijackers’ primary plan to fly the aircraft to a location of their choice.
During the 17-hour ordeal, Neerja showed exemplary courage and leadership. She hid the passports of American passengers to protect them from being singled out by the hijackers, who were targeting Americans. She also comforted the passengers, especially the elderly and children, and managed the situation with calmness and resilience.
When the hijackers opened fire and set off explosives, Neerja opened one of the aircraft doors and helped passengers escape. Despite having the chance to be the first to jump out and flee to safety, she chose to stay behind to assist others. Tragically, she was shot while shielding three children from gunfire.
Aftermath and Legacy
Neerja Bhanot died just two days before her 24th birthday. She was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, becoming the youngest recipient and the first woman to receive this honor. Other countries and organizations, including the United States and Pakistan, also recognized her bravery with awards and honors.
Her actions on that fateful day have left a lasting legacy, inspiring books, documentaries, and a Bollywood film titled “Neerja,” which further brought her story to light. Neerja Bhanot’s life and heroism are remembered for her unwavering dedication to her duties, her immense courage in the face of danger, and her ultimate sacrifice for the safety of others.
Conclusion
The Neerja Bhanot incident is a poignant reminder of the extraordinary acts of courage that individuals can display in times of dire crisis. Her story continues to inspire people around the world to act selflessly and with bravery in the face of adversity. Neerja Bhanot remains an enduring symbol of heroism and humanity.