‘Neerja’ makers spent close to 3 Cr. on research

From exotic locations to stunning VFX, filmmakers don’t mind spending good amounts to ensure that the product turns out really well. However, the makers of Sonam Kapoor starrer Neerja, a biopic on air-hostess Neerja Bhanot, have set a new example. Reportedly, they have spent near about 4 Cr. on the research part!

“Being a biopic, and that too of a heroic 23-year-old girl (Neerja Bhanot, who lost her life while saving many others on a hijacked plane), the makers were sure that they wanted to portray all the events in her life with utmost authenticity. Hence, there was a huge budget that was set aside for research.”- a source stated to a leading daily.

It was also reported that a team consisting of 15 members travelled to various parts of India and also Pakistan, Libya and United States, spotting people who escaped the hijack that day, to have a live narration of facts. This was to ensure that only authentic information be used in the film.

“The makers wanted to get a first-hand account of what these people witnessed on the flight. Their purpose was to make the film look as real as possible,”- the source added.

‘Neerja’ directed by Ram Madhvani is slated to release on February 19, 2016.

Ranjini Maitra

Journalist. Writer. Reader. Enthu cutlet. Mood-swing machine. Day dreamer. Sandwiched between ‘live life fully’ and ‘lose some weight’. Mantra of life: Love and love more.