By 1986, Neerja Bhanot's life was looking up - literally. At just twenty-two, her beauty and poise had earned her a modeling contract with some of India's most recognizable brands and her second job as a lead flight attendant for Pan Am Airlines would have her seeing the world. Good looks was not Neerja's only quality, however, nor would it be her greatest. A survivor of an abusive marriage, she'd faced danger before and escaped, but not once did she foresee the danger that would befall her - and 300 plus passengers - on the morning of September 5, 1986. While at a stop in Karachi, Pakistan, Neerja and her colleagues would look out the window to see four airport security personnel boarding their plane - with guns. What would ensue was a standoff during which Neerja's leadership and quick-thinking would save lives and make her the youngest - and only female - recipient of the Asoka Chakra, India's highest recognition for an act of bravery.
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