Neerja Bhanot.. bravery in the air!

Day 93.. #100daysofhappiness #100happydays

Tears were flowing uncontrollably and I almost thought that I would bawl. People around me were choking on emotion and I was sure that everyone was grateful it was dark and no one was visible. It was not just tears, but smiles too. It was not the filmy bollywood entertainment from any angle, but had a story that had to be told. Thankfully, it was a story that was narrated in perfection, had the impact that it deserved and left the audience, heart broken and motivated all in those couple of hours. While it inspired many even for a couple of seconds, it was a meaningful cinematic experience and a biopic that is lasting. My 100 days has tributes of people or experiences that are meaningful in my lifetime, so this definitely fits the criteria... a true story from my lifetime, when I was 6 years old. So here’s to Neerja – the brave heart who ruled hearts in silence.

This true story took place in 1986. At that time, I definitely have no recollection of this episode and perhaps wouldn’t have known about her, if not for this film. She is an award winner, recognized at her time, but seemingly had faded away. Unfortunately in our society, film stars, actors, sportspersons and such celebrities have a lifetime of recognition that many perhaps hardly deserve. Truth be told, I am a bollywood buff, so I look for drama, emotion, humor, love stories and more. There are perhaps many stories that have impressed me, but this story had the reflection of truth that was acknowledged, thought processes that was respected and courage that is mostly only spoken about. With the essence intact, the film has its share of stretches with subtle romance, the Rajesh Khanna dialogue saga and more. But even these stretches had more meaning that made the film noteworthy.  This film got me to read further on the real Neerja and her life. A lot of the story is narrated in accuracy which makes the true Neerja more intriguing. She was a model and an airhostess whose life could have been about fun, glamour and the charms of the world. But one instance of destiny, without thinking of herself, she chose to be the ‘light in the darkness.’ Battling terrorism has been a saga that has given rise to many heroes, that I can admire, but Neerja did it with a way that strung the right chord in my heart. Her act did not stop terrorism or start a revolution, but the lives she saved have left generations grateful for saving their legacies.

In the last few days, since the release of the film, I have come across many reviews raving the story, speaking on life lessons and its greatness. There have been parallels about the lessons we need to teach our daughters too. In agreement with all views, I am compelled to believe that teaching my daughters about honesty, bravery, selfless acts and respect, will probably be thebest philosophy I can hand down. In a society where, people hardly are willing to be selfless for their own family and friends, creating an expectation of selflessness for the country, makes it a hard bargain. It is a Defense oath, which is executed in sincerity, but when will it reach the masses. The mass ideology is centered on the same philosophy that Shabana Azmi advises her daughter, “When in a situation of trouble, run for your life and save it!” Neerja’s father imparted lessons that if practiced in our society, we will have more unity than what we credit our country for.

At just 23 years, Neerja reflected so many aspects that every woman should epitomize. Standing true to one’s belief and not bearing injustice in the name of society’s expectation of marriage is such a large lesson. Bravery in the most trying times without foregoing duty is crucial, which perhaps not everyone gets the opportunity to excel at such a large level but must be carried out in their own small ways. Lastly the ability to calm the mind even when the heart flutters in fear, will give you the confidence to look at trouble in the eyes and face it with assurance. It reinstates the importance of living a large life than a long one. It’s a strength that cannot be taught or preached, but a practice that will lead to perfection.

Sonam Kapoor did a great job as Neerja Bhanot and introduced me to this ‘woman of substance’, but I am in awe of the actual hero, as there is something in her eyes that can tell you a full story! I am privileged to have been told about Neerja Bhanot. I do hope you find your woman of valor who can inspire you in more ways than can be penned down!