Netflix Series Depicts 1999 IC 814 Hijacking

The Netflix series 'IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack' recounts the harrowing 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, which was diverted across multiple countries before ending in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Directed by Anubhav Sinha and adapted from Captain Devi Sharan's book 'Flight Into Fear', the six-episode series features a star-studded cast, including Vijay Varma as Captain Sharan. The hijacking, executed by five terrorists from Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, resulted in a seven-day hostage crisis that ended with India releasing three terrorists in exchange for the passengers' safety. The series not only portrays the terror experienced by the hostages but also sheds light on the complex diplomatic negotiations involved. Critics have noted concerns regarding the portrayal of the event, with Sinha suggesting a unique perspective on the interactions between hostages and hijackers. The series premiered at the Indian Film Festival in Melbourne and is set to launch on Netflix on August 29.