Captain Devi Sharan, the pilot of IC 814, became a symbol of extraordinary bravery during the harrowing 1999 Indian Airlines hijacking. This incident, which has been vividly brought to life by Vijay Varma in the Netflix series, has once again shone a spotlight on the real-life hero behind the gripping story.
The IC 814 Hijacking of 1999
On December 24, 1999, Indian Airlines Flight 814, en route from Kathmandu to Delhi, was hijacked by five masked men with links to Al Qaeda. This terrifying ordeal lasted for eight days, making it one of the longest hijacking dramas in aviation history. Onboard were 188 passengers and crew, including honeymooners, businessmen, and holidaymakers. At the helm of the plane was 37-year-old Captain Devi Sharan, alongside first officer Rajinder Kumar and flight engineer Anil Kumar Jaggia.
The Heroic Role of Captain Devi Sharan
Captain Devi Sharan, who had planned to go on a family vacation after completing his flight on Christmas Eve, found himself thrust into a situation that would test his courage and resolve to the fullest. Despite the immense pressure and the lives of so many hanging in the balance, Captain Sharan maintained a calm demeanor throughout the ordeal. His quick thinking and decisive actions played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the passengers.
One of the most tense moments occurred when the Lahore Air Traffic Control initially refused permission for the aircraft to land. Demonstrating remarkable presence of mind, Captain Sharan feigned an imminent crash landing to pressure the ATC into allowing the plane to land safely. This quick-witted decision likely averted a potential disaster.
Recognition And Legacy
For his bravery and composure under extreme duress, Captain Devi Sharan was celebrated as a hero upon his return to India. The government, the public, and his family welcomed him back with open arms, recognizing the immense responsibility he had borne and the lives he had helped save.
‘Flight Into Fear’ and the Netflix Series
Captain Sharan’s harrowing experience during the hijacking was documented in his book ‘Flight Into Fear’, co-authored with Srinjoy Chowdhary. This book served as a significant inspiration for Anubhav Sinha’s Netflix series, ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’. In the series, Vijay Varma portrays Captain Sharan, bringing to the screen the tension, fear, and ultimately, the resilience that marked those fateful days.
Vijay Varma, reflecting on his role, shared a profound encounter with the real Captain Sharan. He recounted how the Captain’s calm smile and simplicity left a deep impression on him, especially when Sharan casually revealed the scar on his neck from the hijackers’ gun—a constant reminder of the ordeal he endured. Varma expressed deep admiration for the Captain, calling him a “real-life hero” and highlighting the immense honor it was to depict him on screen.
A Tale of Bravery And Honor
Captain Devi Sharan’s story is one of resilience, critical thinking, and unwavering duty. His actions during the IC 814 hijacking are a testament to the courage and dedication of those who, in the face of unimaginable challenges, rise to protect the lives of others. Today, his story continues to inspire, reminding us all of the quiet strength that true heroes possess.
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