IC 814's Manoj Pahwa shares amusing fan interaction that took place during his flight: "If this gets hijacked, who will negotiate?"

Manoj Pahwa, renowned for his compelling performances, recently shared an intriguing encounter that underscores the impact of his latest role in the series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack. The series directed by Anubhav Sinha, dramatizes the harrowing events when Indian Airlines flight IC 814 was hijacked by five armed men shortly after takeoff from Kathmandu. The aircraft was diverted to multiple locations before being taken to Kandahar, where a tense standoff ensued. Over the course of a week, negotiations unfolded as the hijackers demanded the release of several terrorists held in Indian prisons in exchange for the hostages' safety.

Pahwa's character is central to these negotiations, embodying the complexities and challenges faced by intelligence officials during such crises. His performance has been widely praised for its authenticity and depth, showcasing not only the tactical aspects of negotiation, but also the emotional weight carried by those involved in such high-pressure situations.

In his interview with India Today, Pahwa recounted how surprised he was by the immediate recognition and appreciation from fans in a flight. “There were a few families behind me and they said, ‘Sir, you are also on this flight. If this gets hijacked, who will negotiate?’ I was surprised that this just released, they have already seen it. In that moment, I thought, ‘Now I can go back to Mumbai, people have a good response’” he recalled. This interaction reflects the resonance of Pahwa's portrayal of Mukul Mohan, the Additional Director of the Intelligence Bureau, who plays a pivotal role in negotiating with terrorists during a high-stakes crisis.

The series has garnered attention not just for its gripping narrative, but also for its portrayal of the political landscape of India during that tumultuous period. It features a strong ensemble cast including Vijay Varma, Naseeruddin Shah, and Pankaj Kapur, who together bring to life the intricate dynamics between various government officials as they navigate the crisis.

Following his performance in IC 814, Manoj Pahwa is set to appear in Jigra, alongside Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina. Directed by Vasan Bala the film is all set to release on October 11,2024.
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