New Delhi: Noted actor Vijay Varma, who is anticipating the release of his upcoming limited series, ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’, on Netflix, shared an exclusive sneak peek from the cockpit of an aircraft related to the series. On a bustling Saturday, the actor posted two pictures on his Instagram account, featuring him alongside Captain Devi Sharan, who played a crucial role during the traumatic hijacking incident of Indian Airlines Flight 814. The post has piqued interest, drawing attention not only for the series but also for the real-life heroics of Captain Sharan.
Captain Devi Sharan, the pilot during the infamous hijacking along with first officer Rajinder Kumar and flight engineer Anil Kumar Jaggia, showcased extraordinary courage and leadership during the crisis. His composed demeanor and quick thinking under high pressure were instrumental in navigating the situation.
Varma’s Instagram post was accompanied by a heartfelt caption recalling his initial meeting with Captain Sharan. “Real and Reel Captain Sharan. When I first met the captain, I was taken in by his pleasant smile and his simplicity. Then, I noticed a scar on his neck. When I inquired about it, he calmly replied, ‘wo hijackers ki gun 7 din tak yahi ragadti rahi toh wound ho gaya tha jo heal nahi hua,’ which translates to ‘the wound caused by a hijacker’s gun, that was pressed against my neck for seven days, never healed.’ I was left frozen by his revelation. He just smiled,” the actor wrote.
Reflecting on his experience, Vijay Varma further elaborated, “Meeting Captain Devi Sharan felt like encountering a real-life hero. It’s an immense honor to portray him on screen. His efforts to safeguard the lives of passengers amidst pandemonium and fear are truly inspiring. His story embodies resilience, honor, critical thinking, duty, patience, hope, and, above all, bravery. We salute you, captain.” The series, ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’, will be available for streaming on Netflix starting August 29.
The series delves into the harrowing events of December 24, 1999, when Indian Airlines Flight 814, an Airbus A300 en route from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India, was hijacked.
. The flight, carrying 176 passengers and 15 crew members, was diverted to multiple locations and finally landed in Kandahar, Afghanistan, which was under the control of the Taliban at the time.
The hijackers, members of an Islamic extremist group, demanded the release of several terrorists in Indian prisons, one of whom was known to have close ties to Osama bin Laden. The negotiations that ensued were intense and filled with tension, as the fate of the passengers and crew hung in the balance.
Captain Devi Sharan’s steadfast leadership was crucial during this ordeal, as he maintained communication with the hijackers, strategized with his crew, and ensured the safety of the passengers. His ability to stay composed under such extreme conditions has been widely recognized and lauded.
In his Instagram post, Vijay Varma’s admiration for Captain Sharan is palpable. The actor noted how sharing the screen with veterans and directors like Anubhav Sinha and working under the Netflix banner has enriched his portrayal of the pivotal character. Varma emphasized the significance of the series in highlighting a part of recent history that remains etched in the memories of those who lived through it.
Critically acclaimed director Anubhav Sinha, known for his thought-provoking cinema, has also expressed his excitement for this project. The collaboration with Netflix and production house Matchbox Shots promises to bring a gripping and realistic depiction of the hijack event to viewers.
The series ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’ not only aims to recount the series of events but also intends to honor the bravery and resilience of those who faced such a dire situation. It seeks to pay homage to the heroes like Captain Devi Sharan, whose quick thinking and unwavering courage were instrumental in steering the situation towards a resolution.
As the release date approaches, anticipation is building among viewers who are eager to witness this dramatization of a dark chapter in aviation history. The series is expected to shed light on the psychological and tactical aspects of crisis management, providing a gripping viewing experience.
Netflix India’s Instagram account also shared snippets and trailers of the series, further elevating the anticipation. The streaming giant’s portrayal aims to bring authenticity and depth to the real-life events of the IC 814 hijacking, promising an emotionally engaging and thrilling narrative.
The series ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’ will be available for streaming on Netflix from August 29, promising an insightful and harrowing journey into one of the most significant hijacking incidents in Indian aviation history. Viewers can look forward to a compelling portrayal that honors the courage and dedication of Captain Devi Sharan and his crew.
