Neerja(2016)
Neerja is a 2016 Indian Hindi-language biographical thriller film directed by Ram Madhvani. The film stars Sonam Kapoor as Neerja Bhanot, with Shabana Azmi, Yogendra Tikku, and Jim Sarbh in supporting roles. It recounts the 1986 hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in Karachi, where 22-year-old head purser Neerja Bhanot saved 359 passengers by hiding their passports and opening an emergency exit before being killed by terrorists. The film was produced by Atul Kasbekar under Bling Unplugged and distributed by Fox Star Studios. It received widespread critical acclaim for its direction, performances, and emotional impact. Neerja won two National Film Awards and six Filmfare Awards, including Best Film and Best Actress. The film grossed over ₹135 crore worldwide and was released on February 19, 2016.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Hotstar, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 19 February 2016
- Director
- Ram Madhvani
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 2m
- Rating
- 7.8/10
Storyline
A young flight attendant named Neerja Bhanot boards Pan Am Flight 73 for a routine trip. When four terrorists hijack the plane in Karachi, she must use her wits and courage to protect the passengers. She hides American passports and keeps everyone calm. But as the hours pass, the danger grows. Neerja faces a choice: save herself or save others.
“Courage is her only weapon.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Trivia
- The real Neerja Bhanot's brother, Aneesh Bhanot, played a small cameo role as an air traffic controller in the film.
- The film's director, Ram Madhvani, had never directed a feature film before; he came from a background in advertising.
- To prepare for the role, Sonam Kapoor met with Neerja's family multiple times and also spent time with flight attendants to understand their routines.
- The film was shot in a real, decommissioned aircraft to make the hijack sequences look authentic.
- The movie's climax uses real audio recordings from the actual Pan Am flight 73 hijacking incident.
- Neerja Bhanot's mother, Rama Bhanot, was present on set during many key scenes of the film.
- The film won India's National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi in 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
News & Stories
Sonam Kapoor starrer Neerja which is scheduled to hit the screens on February 19 had a special screening to renowned celebrities on February 16 at Mumbai. The invitees were moved by the breathtaking p…