'Neerja' to release on February 19, 2016

"Neerja', a biopic on the life of late air hostess Neerja Bhanot, will hit the screens on February 19 next year.

"Fox Star Studios and Bling Unplugged is proud to announce that we will be releasing 'Neerja' on February 19 for the people the world over to know and celebrate the story of a 23-year-old girl who found courage and self-sacrifice in an extraordinary moment in her life.

"'Neerja' is one of the unsung heroes of India whose story should be an inspiration for everyone. This is her story," Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios, said in a statement.

Actress Sonam Kapoor essays the role of Bhanot, a Pan Am chief purser who was gunned down by terrorists when Flight 73 was hijacked in Karachi in 1986.

"India tends to forget so many of its heroes. It's heroines even more so. Neerja's story is one that just had to be told and we at Bling Unplugged are delighted and proud that it's our maiden co-production," said Atul Kasbekar, producer, Bling Unplugged.

Veteran actress Shabana Azmi plays the role of Bhanot's mother in the Ram Madhvani directorial.