Neerja Bhanot, Pan Am flight attendant, is remembered as beacon of courage and selflessness.

Her extraordinary act of bravery during hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in 1986 in Karachi, Pakistan, made her national hero and an international symbol of resilience. On September 5, 1986, Pan Am Flight 73, bound for Bombay (Mumbai), was hijacked at Karachi Airport. Hijackers, members of Abu Nidal Organisation, held passengers and crew hostage for 17 hours. Neerja, who was head purser on flight, displayed exceptional leadership and courage during ordeal. She hid passports of American passengers to protect them from being identified and targeted by hijackers. Neerja also alerted authorities about hijacking and provided crucial information that helped in rescue operation. When hijackers opened fire and started throwing grenades, Neerja selflessly alerted pilots to evacuate passengers through emergency exits. Unfortunately, Neerja lost her life while shielding three children from gunfire. Her sacrifice was not in vain; she saved lives of 359 passengers. Neerja’s bravery and compassion earned her posthumous awards, including Ashok Chakra, India’s highest civilian honour for bravery.

In recognition of her extraordinary bravery and compassion, Neerja Bhanot was posthumously awarded Tamgha-e-Pakistan, one of Pakistan’s highest civilian honors. Her recognition in Pakistan serves as powerful reminder of shared humanity and potential for cooperation and understanding between people from different nations. Neerja’s inspiring story was brought to life in 2016 Indian biographical film, “Neerja.” Film, starring Sonam Kapoor in lead role, received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Neerja’s courage, determination and selflessness.”