Bollywood Movies Based on Plane Hijackings: A Look at Popular Films and Series

A recent web series on the 1999 plane hijacking incident has sparked controversy in Bollywood, reigniting interest in films and series based on real-life hijacking events. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the web series "IC 814 Kandahar Hijack" has stirred debates, especially for using Hindu names for terrorists instead of real ones. Over the years, Bollywood has produced several films on plane hijackings, many inspired by true events. Here's a look at some of the most notable ones.

IC 814 Kandahar Hijack (2023)

The latest web series based on the infamous 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 is currently streaming on Netflix. The series has generated controversy for its portrayal of the hijackers, with viewers questioning the decision to change the names of the terrorists. The series delves into the tense days when the plane was hijacked and flown to Kandahar, with the passengers’ fate hanging in the balance.

Bell Bottom (2021)

Starring Akshay Kumar, Bell Bottom is based on the real-life hijackings that occurred during the 1980s. The film portrays a RAW agent's mission to thwart a terrorist plot and rescue the hostages. The film also stars Lara Dutta, Vaani Kapoor, and Huma Qureshi. It received a mixed response but was praised for its patriotic theme and performances. The movie is available for streaming on Amazon Prime.

Neerja (2016)

Starring Sonam Kapoor in the lead role, Neerja is a biopic based on the life of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who sacrificed her life to save 359 passengers during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in Karachi in 1986. The film portrays her courage and heroism, making it one of Bollywood's most emotional and impactful films. The movie can be streamed on Disney+ Hotstar.

Hijack (2008)

Hijack, starring Shiney Ahuja and Esha Deol, is another Bollywood film that revolves around the hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight. Directed by Kunal Shivdasani, the movie showcases how a group of terrorists takes over the plane, and one man's efforts to save the passengers. The movie is inspired by several real-life hijacking incidents, including Flight IC 814. Hijack is available on Netflix.

Bollywood's portrayal of hijackings reflects a mix of patriotism, suspense, and real-life heroism, with films and series offering thrilling accounts of these dramatic events.