Neerja 2016

Arrival at the House Party

Neerja Bhanot, a spirited 22-year-old, arrives fashionably late to a gathering with friends. Her entrance sets a lively mood for the evening, highlighting her vibrant personality and confidence.

Mother's Concern

During the party, Neerja's mother, played by Shabana Azmi, expresses her worries about Neerja's career as a flight attendant. She suggests that Neerja might want to reconsider her profession and return to modeling, showing a mother's concern for her daughter's future.

Embracing Flight Attendant Life

Neerja passionately defends her choice to be a flight attendant, emphasizing the excitement and responsibility that come with the job. Her determination reflects her desire to carve her own path despite family expectations.

Drive to the Airport

Neerja is driven to the airport by her supportive boyfriend, Jaideep. He surprises her with an advance birthday gift, showcasing their affectionate relationship and his unwavering support for her career ambitions.

Reflection on Past Marriage

As she prepares for her flight, Neerja reflects on her brief arranged marriage to Naresh, who was abusive and demanding. This traumatic experience pushes her to reclaim her independence, ultimately leading her to a prestigious role with Pan Am Airways.

Hijacking of Pan Am 73

Shortly after takeoff from Mumbai, the Pan Am 73 flight is hijacked by a group of terrorists disguised as security officers. The hostile takeover transforms a routine flight into a nightmare, putting the lives of all passengers at risk.

Alerting the Cockpit

Neerja quickly takes charge of the dire situation by alerting the cockpit of the hijacking. This courageous action allows the three American pilots to escape, setting the scene for a tense standoff as the plane remains under siege.

Tragic Execution of a Passenger

An Indian American passenger inadvertently reveals his identity to the terrorists, leading to a tragic execution. This brutal act heightens the terror among passengers and underscores the severity of their predicament.

Clever Strategies to Protect Passengers

Demonstrating remarkable bravery, Neerja cleverly hides American passports to protect her fellow passengers from the terrorists. She discreetly signals for help, trying to defuse the escalating violence and save lives.

Switch in Focus

Frustrated after failing to find American citizens, the terrorists turn their attention towards a British passenger. This shift in focus raises the stakes significantly, as the terrorists demand more drastic actions, reflecting their desperate state.

Loss of Auxiliary Power

The situation intensifies when Pan Am 73 loses its auxiliary power, plunging the cabin into darkness. The sudden loss of light adds to the chaos, increasing the panic among passengers who are already terrified.

Evacuation Efforts

In a display of extraordinary courage, Neerja opens the rear door and helps evacuate passengers using the emergency chute. Her quick thinking prioritizes passenger safety, showcasing her leadership and selflessness amid chaos.

Final Act of Heroism

As the situation escalates, Neerja sacrifices her own safety by shielding young children from gunfire. This ultimate act of bravery highlights her selfless character and culminates in her tragic death while trying to save others.