Netflix's 'IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack' Actor Dia Mirza Reveals the Terrifying Experience of Journalist Palash Mehrotra
Exclusive Interview: Dia Mirza Shares How Journalist Palash Mehrotra Was Trapped During the Hijack in 1999
"She Was Actually Stuck at Work for 72 Hours When..."
In a recent interview with Bollywood actress and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Dia Mirza, she revealed the harrowing experience of renowned Indian journalist Palash Mehrotra during the 1999 Indian Airlines Flight 814 hijacking.
Mehrotra, who was working for the Outlook magazine at that time, was one of the 190 passengers on board the plane when it was hijacked by five armed men on December 24, 1999. The plane was forced to land in Kandahar, Afghanistan, where the hijackers held the passengers and crew hostage for seven days.
Mirza, who plays a flight attendant in the upcoming Netflix film "IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack," said she was deeply moved by Mehrotra's story and felt compelled to share it with the world.
Mehrotra's Account of the Hijacking
- Mehrotra recalled the terrifying moment when the hijackers stormed the plane, brandishing guns and explosives.
- She described the harrowing conditions on the plane, with passengers and crew subjected to extreme heat, cold, and unsanitary conditions.
- Mehrotra shared her fear and uncertainty as the hijackers threatened to kill the hostages if their demands were not met.
Despite the ordeal, Mehrotra said she was inspired by the resilience and courage of her fellow passengers and the flight crew, who put their own lives at risk to protect others.
After seven days, the hijackers released the hostages following negotiations with the Indian government. Mehrotra, traumatized but alive, returned home to India.
Mirza's Role in the Film
Mirza said she was honored to play a role in the upcoming film, which she believes will shed light on the horrific events of the hijacking.
"This is a story that needs to be told," Mirza said. "It's a story of courage, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the human race."
"IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack" is scheduled to be released on Netflix in 2023.
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