Nirja Bhanot was the first woman to receive the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, posthumously in 1987, for her bravery and sacrifice during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73.
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Nirja Bhanot was the first woman to receive the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, posthumously in 1987, for her bravery and sacrifice during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73.
Nirja Bhanot, a courageous flight attendant, made history as the first woman to be posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award. During the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in 1986, Bhanot displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness in protecting passengers’ lives. Despite facing imminent danger, she helped hide the passports of American passengers to prevent their identification by hijackers, thereby saving many lives. Tragically, Bhanot lost her life while shielding three children from gunfire, sacrificing her own safety to protect others. Her bravery and unwavering commitment to duty exemplified the highest ideals of courage and sacrifice. The Ashoka Chakra awarded to Nirja Bhanot honored her exceptional bravery and selflessness in the face of adversity, inspiring countless individuals and highlighting the indomitable spirit of courage and humanity.