First Woman to Receive the Ashoka Chakra, Know Her Name

Neerja Bhanot was an Indian flight purser who became the first woman to receive the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award. She was recognized for her bravery during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 on 5 September 1986. Neerja’s heroic actions saved the lives of many passengers, and her selfless sacrifice earned her admiration and respect worldwide.

Early Life of Neerja Bhanot

Neerja Bhanot was born in Chandigarh, India, into a Punjabi Hindu Brahmin family. She completed her early education at Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School in Chandigarh and later studied at Bombay Scottish School and St. Xavier’s College in Bombay. Her career as a model began in Bombay, and she later pursued a career as a flight purser with Pan Am airlines.

The Hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73

On 5 September 1986, Pan Am Flight 73, flying from Bombay to New York via Karachi and Frankfurt, was hijacked by four terrorists from the Abu Nidal Organization. Neerja, the senior flight purser, acted quickly and alerted the cockpit crew, who managed to escape. Despite the hijackers’ attempts to target American passengers, Neerja hid the passports of 43 Americans on board, preventing the terrorists from identifying them.

Neerja’s Bravery and Sacrifice

During the 17-hour standoff, Neerja remained calm and composed, helping passengers and managing the situation inside the plane. As the hijackers opened fire, she could have escaped but chose to help others first. While guiding passengers to safety, Neerja was shot and killed. Her brave actions saved countless lives, including children, and prevented the hijackers from taking control of the plane.

First Woman to Receive the Ashoka Chakra

In recognition of her extraordinary bravery, Neerja Bhanot was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra in 1987, becoming the first woman to receive this prestigious honor. The citation praised her loyalty to passengers and her unwavering courage in the face of danger. Neerja was also honored internationally, receiving awards such as the Tamgha-e-Pakistan from Pakistan and several accolades from the United States.

Legacy and Honors

Neerja’s legacy continues to inspire generations. Her family established the Neerja Bhanot Trust to honor individuals who demonstrate courage and selflessness. The trust presents awards annually to a flight crew member and an Indian woman who has faced social injustice. Neerja’s story was also immortalized in the 2016 film “Neerja,” starring Sonam Kapoor.