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WEB IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack

Shocking Details Revealed

Apology and Hug

Director Anubhav Sinha, in an interview, revealed that one of the hijackers apologized to the pilot and even hugged him, expressing: “Main aapke kaam aa sakoon” (May I be of any assistance to you?).

Antakshari with Hijackers

Sinha also disclosed that the passengers engaged in “antakshari” (musical game) with the hijackers during the ordeal, which lasted for 176 hours.

Unaltered Approach

Despite the film's global release, Sinha affirms that he did not alter his approach, striving to maintain authenticity and emotional resonance.

Details of the Hijack

• Indian Airlines flight IC 814 was hijacked on December 24, 1999, by Pakistan-based terrorist group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen.
• The flight was en route from Kathmandu, Nepal, to New Delhi, India.
• The hijackers demanded the release of three terrorists imprisoned in India.
• The aircraft was eventually flown to Kandahar, Afghanistan, where the hostages were held for eight days.
• The Indian government agreed to release the three terrorists in exchange for the safe return of the hostages.

Legacy and Impact

The Kandahar hijacking remains a significant event in Indian history, evoking memories of the national morale being shaken.

Director Anubhav Sinha's upcoming film, WEB IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, aims to shed light on the harrowing experience endured by the passengers and crew.

Additional Resources

• BBC News: Kandahar hijack: 20 years on
• India Today: IC-814 hijack: 20 years on, remembering the ordeal of passengers, crew
• The Hindu: The Kandahar hijack: 20 years later