Devi Sharan Biography : Captain Devi Sharan, a name that will forever be etched in the annals of Indian aviation history, is a true hero whose bravery and quick thinking saved countless lives during one of the most harrowing incidents in the country’s history – the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 on December 24, 1999. As the pilot of the ill-fated flight, Sharan displayed remarkable composure and leadership in the face of unimaginable adversity, guiding his crew and passengers through a week-long ordeal that tested the limits of human endurance.
His story, marked by resilience, quick thinking, and unwavering commitment to duty, has inspired countless individuals and has been the subject of numerous books, films, and now, a Netflix series. This biography delves into the life of this remarkable man, exploring his personal journey, family background, the fateful events of IC 814, and the lasting impact he has made on the world of aviation.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Devi Sharan |
| Date of Birth | 1962 |
| Place of Birth | New Delhi, India |
| Occupation | Pilot |
| Education | Graduate of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) |
| Spouse | Navneet Sharan |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Net Worth | Approximately $1 million |
Family Background
Devi Sharan hails from a middle-class family in New Delhi, India. His father, a civil servant, instilled in him the values of hard work, discipline, and service to others, which would later shape his character and guide his actions during the IC 814 hijacking. Sharan’s mother, a homemaker, provided a nurturing environment that fostered his growth and development.
Wife and Children
Devi Sharan is married to Navneet Sharan, a homemaker who has been a constant source of support throughout his career. Together, they have two daughters who have followed in their father’s footsteps, pursuing careers in aviation and business.
IC 814 Hijacking
On December 24, 1999, Devi Sharan was at the helm of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814, a routine flight from Kathmandu to Delhi. As the aircraft entered Indian airspace, five armed hijackers, with ties to the terrorist organization Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, seized control of the plane, demanding the release of several high-profile terrorists imprisoned in India. What followed was a harrowing week-long ordeal that tested the limits of Sharan’s skill and resilience.
Diversion and Refueling
Under the hijackers’ orders, Sharan was forced to divert the aircraft to several locations, including Amritsar, Lahore, Dubai, and ultimately, Kandahar, Afghanistan. At each stop, he negotiated with the hijackers, buying time for the passengers and crew while ensuring the safety of the aircraft. In Lahore, Sharan even contemplated a daring move, pretending to crash-land the plane on the highway to force the air traffic control to switch on the runway lights and allow the aircraft to land safely.
Negotiations and Release
As the hijacking dragged on, Sharan remained steadfast in his commitment to his passengers and crew, providing them with updates and reassurance throughout the ordeal. He worked closely with the Indian government and security forces to facilitate negotiations, ultimately leading to the release of the hostages on December 31, 1999, after the Indian government agreed to release three imprisoned terrorists.
Career
Devi Sharan’s career in aviation began in the early 1980s when he graduated from the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), a premier pilot training institute in India. He joined Indian Airlines (now Air India) in 1984 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a senior pilot and instructor.
Accolades and Recognition
Sharan’s heroic actions during the IC 814 hijacking earned him widespread acclaim and recognition. He was awarded the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, and the Sword of Honour by the Indian Air Force. He was also honored with the Pilot of the Year award by the Federation of Indian Pilots.
Interesting Facts
- Sharan’s book: In 2000, Sharan co-authored a book titled “Flight into Fear: The Captain’s Story,” which provided a firsthand account of the IC 814 hijacking.
- Haunted hotel: During a layover in the UAE, Sharan and his crew stayed in a hotel rumored to be haunted, an experience that left him spooked and inspired a chapter in his book.
- Inaccuracies in Netflix series: Sharan has pointed out two inaccuracies in the Netflix series “IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack,” which depicts the events of the hijacking.
- Retirement: Sharan retired from Air India in 2022 after a distinguished career spanning over three decades.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Devi Sharan’s estimated net worth is approximately $1 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful career as a pilot, author, and public speaker, as well as various awards and accolades he has received over the years.
Conclusion Of Devi Sharan Biography
Devi Sharan’s biography is a testament to the power of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to duty. His actions during the IC 814 hijacking have cemented his place in history as a true hero, a role model for aspiring pilots, and an inspiration to all who face adversity. As he enters the next chapter of his life, Sharan’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us all of the importance of staying calm under pressure and putting the safety and well-being of others above all else.
FAQ
Who is Devi Sharan?
Devi Sharan is the former pilot of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814, which was hijacked on December 24, 1999. He is widely regarded as a hero for his actions during the eight-day ordeal, which ultimately led to the safe release of all the hostages.
What is India’s worst hijack?
The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 on December 24, 1999, is considered one of the worst hijacking incidents in India’s history. The eight-day ordeal, which involved the aircraft being diverted to several locations, including Kandahar, Afghanistan, was a traumatic event for the country.
What is the longest hijack in Indian history?
The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 is the longest hijacking incident in Indian history, lasting for eight days from December 24, 1999, to December 31, 1999.
When was the last plane hijacked in India?
The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 on December 24, 1999, was the last major hijacking incident in India. Since then, there have been no successful hijackings of Indian aircraft.
Captain Devi Sharan Wikipedia
Captain Devi Sharan has a Wikipedia page that provides information about his life, career, and the IC 814 hijacking incident.
Devi Sharan Book
In 2000, Devi Sharan co-authored a book titled “Flight into Fear: The Captain’s Story,” which provides a firsthand account of the IC 814 hijacking.
Where is Devi Sharan now?
Devi Sharan retired from Air India in 2022 after a distinguished career spanning over three decades. He currently resides in New Delhi, India.
Devi Sharan Pilot Wife
Devi Sharan’s wife is named Navneet Sharan. She has been a constant source of support throughout his career as a pilot.
Is Captain Devi Sharan Alive?
Yes, Captain Devi Sharan is alive and well as of 2024. He retired from Air India in 2022 after a successful career as a pilot.
Captain Devi Sharan Family
Devi Sharan comes from a middle-class family in New Delhi, India. He is married to Navneet Sharan and has two daughters who have followed in his footsteps, pursuing careers in aviation and business.
Check this out for more such biography
