What do you think?
Rate this book
Hijacked: A True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates
On 11 April 2010, Pralav Dhyani, a freshly minted deck officer in training on a cargo merchant vessel, was contemplating the intense discipline life at sea would require from him, when armed pirates forcefully boarded the ship off the coast of Africa. As confusion ensued, one thing became clear to the MV RAK Afrikana was being hijacked. It was the beginning of a nightmare that Pralav-then all of twenty-one-has never been able to forget.
The crew was taken to an obscure location in Somalia, from where negotiations commenced with their ship's company for their release. For 331 days, the small band of men, who had come together from different countries to earn a living for their families, stuck together through mock executions and mental torture, terror and betrayal, as a complex web of politics and piracy revealed itself to them. It would be eleven months before Pralav and his crew mates would be free again.
A compelling story of hardship and the power of human resilience, Hijacked is a thrilling first-person account of the perils of being a maritime officer and how treacherous life on the high seas can be.
The crew was taken to an obscure location in Somalia, from where negotiations commenced with their ship's company for their release. For 331 days, the small band of men, who had come together from different countries to earn a living for their families, stuck together through mock executions and mental torture, terror and betrayal, as a complex web of politics and piracy revealed itself to them. It would be eleven months before Pralav and his crew mates would be free again.
A compelling story of hardship and the power of human resilience, Hijacked is a thrilling first-person account of the perils of being a maritime officer and how treacherous life on the high seas can be.
- GenresNonfictionMemoir
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2025
3 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 31, 2025
3.75/5 ⭐️
So I just finished Pralav Dhyani's "Hijacked," and I can say I was engrossed from the very first page. Knowing this is a true story of the author's own experience of being hijacked truly amplified the impact.
Growing up, like many, I'd seen news reports about airplane and ship hijackings, often wondering about the fear and misery endured by those directly involved and their families. This book helped me step into their perspective. The author’s writing is so good that I could feel his emotions of fear, happiness, sadness, relief and longing to reunite with his parents.
Perhaps the extensive detail about the ship's mechanics wasn't my favorite part, but I can see how it contributed to the plot.
This book could easily come under the thriller genre. I constantly found myself on the edge of my seat anticipating what would happen next, or what new demand the pirates would come up with. At one point I found myself sympathising with the pirates. This isn't to excuse their actions, but the book subtly hints at the complex circumstances that might drive individuals to such extremes.
Also I loved how the author sees himself as a survivor and not a victim. All in all this was a story of hope, survival and human will.
So I just finished Pralav Dhyani's "Hijacked," and I can say I was engrossed from the very first page. Knowing this is a true story of the author's own experience of being hijacked truly amplified the impact.
Growing up, like many, I'd seen news reports about airplane and ship hijackings, often wondering about the fear and misery endured by those directly involved and their families. This book helped me step into their perspective. The author’s writing is so good that I could feel his emotions of fear, happiness, sadness, relief and longing to reunite with his parents.
Perhaps the extensive detail about the ship's mechanics wasn't my favorite part, but I can see how it contributed to the plot.
This book could easily come under the thriller genre. I constantly found myself on the edge of my seat anticipating what would happen next, or what new demand the pirates would come up with. At one point I found myself sympathising with the pirates. This isn't to excuse their actions, but the book subtly hints at the complex circumstances that might drive individuals to such extremes.
Also I loved how the author sees himself as a survivor and not a victim. All in all this was a story of hope, survival and human will.
May 4, 2025
The real-life story of a 21-year-old deck officer in the Merchant Navy, held captive by pirates for 331 days? Definitely lured me to read it!
One can only imagine how it would have been there, the horrors of torture, the act of survival and the wish to be free. This book draws attention to the reality of maritime services, how the crew members are always surrounded by uncertainties, the fear of being in such a captivity situation, the everyday struggle for basic necessities, and the psychological impact these events cast on a person. I really liked the writing style of the author, how he described all the emotions in such a simple manner yet kept me hooked to the story and compelled me to know what happens next.
The courage shown by Pralav and the crew members there and how their captain took care of them is really admirable. It's really beautiful to see how they never lost hope and the circumstances were always working to break their spirits. He just started his career and being met with this situation must have been a wrecking experience that lasts a lifetime but his will to survive is what makes his story worth reading. The honesty In his story is really admiring.
Surely life will throw circumstances at you but your mindset will determine how you go through it. We always think our lives are boring but such real-life accounts really make us think how much we take our freedom and daily blessings for granted.
Highly recommend this book.
One can only imagine how it would have been there, the horrors of torture, the act of survival and the wish to be free. This book draws attention to the reality of maritime services, how the crew members are always surrounded by uncertainties, the fear of being in such a captivity situation, the everyday struggle for basic necessities, and the psychological impact these events cast on a person. I really liked the writing style of the author, how he described all the emotions in such a simple manner yet kept me hooked to the story and compelled me to know what happens next.
The courage shown by Pralav and the crew members there and how their captain took care of them is really admirable. It's really beautiful to see how they never lost hope and the circumstances were always working to break their spirits. He just started his career and being met with this situation must have been a wrecking experience that lasts a lifetime but his will to survive is what makes his story worth reading. The honesty In his story is really admiring.
Surely life will throw circumstances at you but your mindset will determine how you go through it. We always think our lives are boring but such real-life accounts really make us think how much we take our freedom and daily blessings for granted.
Highly recommend this book.
May 4, 2025
A first-person, heart-wrenching tale of a 21-year-old deck officer whose cargo ship was seized by Somali pirates. This book covers his account of 331 days that started as a routine journey and turned into a nightmare.
The immersive narration style of this book will hook you from Chapter 1 itself. The way the author portrayed not just the physical dangers but also the mental torture that he and his crew went through was honestly beyond my comprehension. The book stands as a testament to the endurance of human beings—how even the most ordinary of us can withstand extraordinary suffering.
I often feel that in a book of this length, the details and buildup are compromised. But that was not the case here. I got a crisp, short, but comprehensive version of the story that covered the particulars with psychological depth. However, if you’re looking for geopolitical insights, there might just be a handful of scenes.
Consider this review from the perspective of someone who had just a basic knowledge of this story (news-level), so what I read here absolutely chilled me to the bone. I’d recommend this to readers who are looking for adventure, thrills, and survivor stories from the lens of real-life experiences.
The immersive narration style of this book will hook you from Chapter 1 itself. The way the author portrayed not just the physical dangers but also the mental torture that he and his crew went through was honestly beyond my comprehension. The book stands as a testament to the endurance of human beings—how even the most ordinary of us can withstand extraordinary suffering.
I often feel that in a book of this length, the details and buildup are compromised. But that was not the case here. I got a crisp, short, but comprehensive version of the story that covered the particulars with psychological depth. However, if you’re looking for geopolitical insights, there might just be a handful of scenes.
Consider this review from the perspective of someone who had just a basic knowledge of this story (news-level), so what I read here absolutely chilled me to the bone. I’d recommend this to readers who are looking for adventure, thrills, and survivor stories from the lens of real-life experiences.
May 6, 2025
Pralav Dhyani was just beginning his maritime journey when his ship, MV RAK Afrikana, was hijacked by Somali pirates. What followed was an unimaginable ordeal - 332 days of captivity marked by fear, uncertainty, and survival. Taken to a hidden location deep in Somalia, Pralav and his multinational crewmates were forced to endure psychological torment, threats to their lives, and the crushing weight of not knowing if they'd ever return home. Despite the dire circumstances, at last, freedom came.
Reading this memoir felt like stepping into a world far removed from ordinary life, yet it was disturbingly real. Pralav’s voice is unflinching and honest, never dramatizing his suffering but letting the sheer weight of it settle quietly in the reader’s chest. There are parts that made me pause, not because they were hard to understand, but because they were hard to imagine surviving. One can hardly imagine the hardships these people had to go through.
I appreciate the fact that Pralav doesn’t seek pity. Instead, he offers a window into how the human spirit clings to hope, how even in the grip of cruelty, dignity can endure. It’s not just a tale of survival, but of quiet strength, and how in the darkest places, people still look out for one another. This book leaves a long-lasting essence on the mind.
Reading this memoir felt like stepping into a world far removed from ordinary life, yet it was disturbingly real. Pralav’s voice is unflinching and honest, never dramatizing his suffering but letting the sheer weight of it settle quietly in the reader’s chest. There are parts that made me pause, not because they were hard to understand, but because they were hard to imagine surviving. One can hardly imagine the hardships these people had to go through.
I appreciate the fact that Pralav doesn’t seek pity. Instead, he offers a window into how the human spirit clings to hope, how even in the grip of cruelty, dignity can endure. It’s not just a tale of survival, but of quiet strength, and how in the darkest places, people still look out for one another. This book leaves a long-lasting essence on the mind.
December 31, 2025
Hijacked: A True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates is a true story based on the hijack of a merchant ship named RAK Afrikana in April 2010. The author, a deck cadet back then, couldn't even imagine that he would have to experience something like a pirate attack. But unfortunately, the ship was hijacked, and Pralav, along with twenty-one other people, had to go through the worst conditions.
The book shook me. I couldn't even imagine the trauma of being stuck in an unknown location for almost a year. There was no certainty about whether one would be able to return home alive. I will have to acknowledge the courage of the author and the other officers on the ship, and how they supported each other throughout the ordeal. Their ability to remain cool and calm in the toughest of times is something I really admire about them.
The author's writing style is simple and neat, and will keep you hooked till the very end. He has also tried to explain the situation from the pirates' perspective. So, at some point, I even sympathized with the pirates.
All in all, I will say that Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani is an eye-opening read, and the story will stay with me for a long time. I will recommend this book to anyone who likes reading survival stories.
The book shook me. I couldn't even imagine the trauma of being stuck in an unknown location for almost a year. There was no certainty about whether one would be able to return home alive. I will have to acknowledge the courage of the author and the other officers on the ship, and how they supported each other throughout the ordeal. Their ability to remain cool and calm in the toughest of times is something I really admire about them.
The author's writing style is simple and neat, and will keep you hooked till the very end. He has also tried to explain the situation from the pirates' perspective. So, at some point, I even sympathized with the pirates.
All in all, I will say that Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani is an eye-opening read, and the story will stay with me for a long time. I will recommend this book to anyone who likes reading survival stories.
April 27, 2025
I couldn’t tear myself away from this book! Pralav’s true account of being hijacked captivated me from the very first page. Through his story as a young officer just starting out, you feel every moment of fear, uncertainty, and resilience as he and his crew are held hostage off the coast of Somalia.
What stayed with me most was the way the crew stood together when it mattered most. Watching Pralav grow from a rookie sailor into a survivor who could face challenges was inspiring. What’s even more remarkable is how he tells the story without bitterness, not even toward the pirates.
Halfway through reading, I decided to watch Captain Phillips, and it gave me visuals that enhanced my reading experience as I continued with the rest of the book.
Besides being a powerful survival story, Hijacked also offers a fascinating look into life aboard a merchant ship and the complicated world of modern piracy. If you’re looking for a true story that shows just how much the human spirit can endure, I highly recommend picking up Hijacked.
What stayed with me most was the way the crew stood together when it mattered most. Watching Pralav grow from a rookie sailor into a survivor who could face challenges was inspiring. What’s even more remarkable is how he tells the story without bitterness, not even toward the pirates.
Halfway through reading, I decided to watch Captain Phillips, and it gave me visuals that enhanced my reading experience as I continued with the rest of the book.
Besides being a powerful survival story, Hijacked also offers a fascinating look into life aboard a merchant ship and the complicated world of modern piracy. If you’re looking for a true story that shows just how much the human spirit can endure, I highly recommend picking up Hijacked.
May 4, 2025
RAK Africana, seized by Somali pirates—a nightmare for young deck officer Pralav Dhyani. I had heard about this incident years ago, but reading the account directly from someone who lived through this nightmare is truly overwhelming.
In 2010, RAK Africana a cargo vessel was hijacked by armed pirates off the coast of Africa. In this book, author and deck officer Pralav Dhyani recounts his experience in a simple and engaging style that will hook the readers from beginning to end.
A story that will take you on an adventurous, yet nightmarish voyage filled with excitement, fear, uncertainty, and a fragile sliver of hope. For those who are fascinated by the art of diplomacy, this book offers a powerful glimpse into the efforts involved in safely rescuing a ship’s crew under extreme circumstances.
Hijacked is a must-read for anyone who appreciates powerful true stories.
In 2010, RAK Africana a cargo vessel was hijacked by armed pirates off the coast of Africa. In this book, author and deck officer Pralav Dhyani recounts his experience in a simple and engaging style that will hook the readers from beginning to end.
A story that will take you on an adventurous, yet nightmarish voyage filled with excitement, fear, uncertainty, and a fragile sliver of hope. For those who are fascinated by the art of diplomacy, this book offers a powerful glimpse into the efforts involved in safely rescuing a ship’s crew under extreme circumstances.
Hijacked is a must-read for anyone who appreciates powerful true stories.
May 2, 2025
Hijacked: A True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates by Pralav Dhyani is a book that left me shocked and deeply moved. Right from the first chapter, the gripping narrative hooked me, pulling me into the harrowing real-life ordeal of a 21-year-old fighting to survive in the clutches of Somali pirates.
Beyond the physical struggle, the book doesn’t shy away from the mental torture the hostages endured, giving a raw and unfiltered look at what captivity does to a person.
The writing is simple and engaging, making it easy to understand and feel connected to the events and The writing style is straightforward yet powerful, making it easy to connect with the emotions behind the events.
As someone unfamiliar with the realities of maritime life, I learned a lot about the dangers sailors face beyond what we usually hear in the news. A must-read for anyone who enjoys survival stories with deep emotional weight.
Beyond the physical struggle, the book doesn’t shy away from the mental torture the hostages endured, giving a raw and unfiltered look at what captivity does to a person.
The writing is simple and engaging, making it easy to understand and feel connected to the events and The writing style is straightforward yet powerful, making it easy to connect with the emotions behind the events.
As someone unfamiliar with the realities of maritime life, I learned a lot about the dangers sailors face beyond what we usually hear in the news. A must-read for anyone who enjoys survival stories with deep emotional weight.
May 11, 2025
✨Book Review: Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani✨
Growing up, the news of hijacked planes, ships, buses, would usually be swept away under the rug as common occurrence as a sad reality of this world that we live in. Sometimes these hijackings were fueled by greed for money or power, other times the verdict would be the hijackers’ cruel need to spread fear through terrorism. Movies like Neerja (a true life account showing the story of the brave flight crew member Neerja Bhanot) further gave accounts of what goes on during such crucial life or death situations of hijackings.
However, nothing I have ever seen before could have compared to what I was feeling while reading the real life account of the author’s experience being on a hijacked ship for 331 days in the Somalian waters under the strict eye of pirates who were a part of an intricately run system involved in hijacking ships and making their profits through ransoms.
This book shows Pralav Dhyani’s very real journey of how he became a Junior Cadet on a cargo merchant ship and how at merely the age of 21 years, he survived 331 days at sea on a ship hijacked by armed pirates off the coast of Africa.
As he writes this book in hindsight of possibly the most traumatic experience of his life, Pralav gives a very honest account of what he experienced during the time he was in captivity of the Somalian pirates along with the rest of his crew and all of the battles they faced. There are even points in his journey that reveal an ugly truth of how lack of proper employment and education due to a politically leeched out administration of a country can force its people into piracy and earning their living off of ransoms and reading it made me connect to a very human side of my soul that, to some extent, felt saddened at the plight of the pirates too.
Pralav’s will to not paint himself or his fellow officers as victims of this horror story but rather celebrate himself as a survivor was truly refreshing to read. There were times when I had to remind myself that this was not a piece of fiction that I was reading but a very real incident that happened in the author’s life and seeing his journey from a carefree boy to a man having seen the worst of life felt like I grew a little by the time I reached the end of the book.
I appreciate the author for having the courage to share his story with the world and for putting it in words that could make me feel so much as I was reading them. Truly an eye opening journey.
Growing up, the news of hijacked planes, ships, buses, would usually be swept away under the rug as common occurrence as a sad reality of this world that we live in. Sometimes these hijackings were fueled by greed for money or power, other times the verdict would be the hijackers’ cruel need to spread fear through terrorism. Movies like Neerja (a true life account showing the story of the brave flight crew member Neerja Bhanot) further gave accounts of what goes on during such crucial life or death situations of hijackings.
However, nothing I have ever seen before could have compared to what I was feeling while reading the real life account of the author’s experience being on a hijacked ship for 331 days in the Somalian waters under the strict eye of pirates who were a part of an intricately run system involved in hijacking ships and making their profits through ransoms.
This book shows Pralav Dhyani’s very real journey of how he became a Junior Cadet on a cargo merchant ship and how at merely the age of 21 years, he survived 331 days at sea on a ship hijacked by armed pirates off the coast of Africa.
As he writes this book in hindsight of possibly the most traumatic experience of his life, Pralav gives a very honest account of what he experienced during the time he was in captivity of the Somalian pirates along with the rest of his crew and all of the battles they faced. There are even points in his journey that reveal an ugly truth of how lack of proper employment and education due to a politically leeched out administration of a country can force its people into piracy and earning their living off of ransoms and reading it made me connect to a very human side of my soul that, to some extent, felt saddened at the plight of the pirates too.
Pralav’s will to not paint himself or his fellow officers as victims of this horror story but rather celebrate himself as a survivor was truly refreshing to read. There were times when I had to remind myself that this was not a piece of fiction that I was reading but a very real incident that happened in the author’s life and seeing his journey from a carefree boy to a man having seen the worst of life felt like I grew a little by the time I reached the end of the book.
I appreciate the author for having the courage to share his story with the world and for putting it in words that could make me feel so much as I was reading them. Truly an eye opening journey.
May 11, 2025
A True Survival Story of Courage and Resilience
Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani is a gripping and emotional memoir that recounts the harrowing experience of a young deck officer who, at the age of 21, was taken hostage by Somali pirates. This first-person account details the 331 days of terror endured by Dhyani and his crew after their ship, the MV RAK Afrikana, was hijacked off the coast of Africa. What begins as a routine voyage quickly spirals into a nightmare, with the crew held captive in Somalia, subjected to mock executions, mental torture, and constant fear. The book provides a raw, unflinching look into the world of piracy and the resilience required to survive under unimaginable circumstances.
What makes Hijacked stand out is Dhyani’s simple yet powerful writing that pulls readers straight into the tension of the story. From the moment the pirates board the ship, you can feel the fear and uncertainty that gripped the crew. The author’s ability to convey his emotions—fear, hope, and resilience—makes this more than just a survival story. It’s a profound journey of human endurance, where moments of courage and brotherhood shine through amidst the darkness. Dhyani’s story is not just about surviving pirates; it's about how people come together, despite their differences, and find strength in the most testing of times.
However, while the book is undeniably gripping, its intense focus on the details of survival and the psychological toll can feel overwhelming at times. Some readers may find the narrative a bit heavy on the emotional intensity and tension, which could slow down the pace for those looking for a quicker read. Despite this, the emotional depth and honesty with which Dhyani tells his story makes it a powerful and compelling experience for those who appreciate true-life survival tales.
In conclusion, Hijacked is a remarkable and thought-provoking book that showcases the true power of human resilience in the face of life-threatening danger. Dhyani’s ability to share his story with such emotional depth and authenticity makes it a must-read for anyone interested in survival stories, real-life thrillers, and memoirs of strength. Whether you’re fascinated by maritime life or simply enjoy gripping true stories of survival, Hijacked is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani is a gripping and emotional memoir that recounts the harrowing experience of a young deck officer who, at the age of 21, was taken hostage by Somali pirates. This first-person account details the 331 days of terror endured by Dhyani and his crew after their ship, the MV RAK Afrikana, was hijacked off the coast of Africa. What begins as a routine voyage quickly spirals into a nightmare, with the crew held captive in Somalia, subjected to mock executions, mental torture, and constant fear. The book provides a raw, unflinching look into the world of piracy and the resilience required to survive under unimaginable circumstances.
What makes Hijacked stand out is Dhyani’s simple yet powerful writing that pulls readers straight into the tension of the story. From the moment the pirates board the ship, you can feel the fear and uncertainty that gripped the crew. The author’s ability to convey his emotions—fear, hope, and resilience—makes this more than just a survival story. It’s a profound journey of human endurance, where moments of courage and brotherhood shine through amidst the darkness. Dhyani’s story is not just about surviving pirates; it's about how people come together, despite their differences, and find strength in the most testing of times.
However, while the book is undeniably gripping, its intense focus on the details of survival and the psychological toll can feel overwhelming at times. Some readers may find the narrative a bit heavy on the emotional intensity and tension, which could slow down the pace for those looking for a quicker read. Despite this, the emotional depth and honesty with which Dhyani tells his story makes it a powerful and compelling experience for those who appreciate true-life survival tales.
In conclusion, Hijacked is a remarkable and thought-provoking book that showcases the true power of human resilience in the face of life-threatening danger. Dhyani’s ability to share his story with such emotional depth and authenticity makes it a must-read for anyone interested in survival stories, real-life thrillers, and memoirs of strength. Whether you’re fascinated by maritime life or simply enjoy gripping true stories of survival, Hijacked is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
April 29, 2025
Among all the books I have read to date, this one left me with dismay. To be held hostage on the sea for 331 days with the slightest chance of returning home while living with fully armed Somali pirates is dreadful and heartbreaking. This is the story of the survival, strength, and hope of 24 members.
The author started his career in the merchant navy, but the first ship he boarded, RAK Africana, was hijacked. As you sail through the pages, reading about the days on the sea when the author worked, you go from happiness to grief and hope to despair. The crew of different nationalities lived as a family on RAK Africana, and the resilience and patience of the 24 members kept them grounded even at fateful times with their teamwork.
In certain instances, Pralav Dhyani elaborates things funnily but never holds a grudge against the pirates for what they have done to them despite being a novice in that field. The plethora of emotions he has gone through during this ordeal is unfathomable. Yet he didn’t let the scary people break his spirits.
Captain Ram true to the title, took care of each member of his crew till the end. Even though the author doesn’t speak of little scuffles he might have experienced on the ship, he elaborated on the struggles while surviving on the hijacked ship with food, water and other necessities reminding us of the basic things needed for life. His first ship left a lasting impression on him for a lifetime.
I like the way his tone never lets the reader sway from the narrative. Despite losing their freedom, Dhyani empathised with the pirates realising what might have lured them to this ghastly job. The last chapter earned him my respect for the thought process he has. Sometimes people don’t realise the intensity of their actions when they are blinded by ignorance.
Even though I couldn’t understand the terms related to parts of the ship, I perceived the gist of their plight while saving themselves and the ship during their captivity. Giving us a vivid picture of the entire incident on RAK Africana, the author mentions every minute detail of the incident in the book.
Do give it a read if you like to explore real-life incidents.
The author started his career in the merchant navy, but the first ship he boarded, RAK Africana, was hijacked. As you sail through the pages, reading about the days on the sea when the author worked, you go from happiness to grief and hope to despair. The crew of different nationalities lived as a family on RAK Africana, and the resilience and patience of the 24 members kept them grounded even at fateful times with their teamwork.
In certain instances, Pralav Dhyani elaborates things funnily but never holds a grudge against the pirates for what they have done to them despite being a novice in that field. The plethora of emotions he has gone through during this ordeal is unfathomable. Yet he didn’t let the scary people break his spirits.
Captain Ram true to the title, took care of each member of his crew till the end. Even though the author doesn’t speak of little scuffles he might have experienced on the ship, he elaborated on the struggles while surviving on the hijacked ship with food, water and other necessities reminding us of the basic things needed for life. His first ship left a lasting impression on him for a lifetime.
I like the way his tone never lets the reader sway from the narrative. Despite losing their freedom, Dhyani empathised with the pirates realising what might have lured them to this ghastly job. The last chapter earned him my respect for the thought process he has. Sometimes people don’t realise the intensity of their actions when they are blinded by ignorance.
Even though I couldn’t understand the terms related to parts of the ship, I perceived the gist of their plight while saving themselves and the ship during their captivity. Giving us a vivid picture of the entire incident on RAK Africana, the author mentions every minute detail of the incident in the book.
Do give it a read if you like to explore real-life incidents.
May 11, 2025
𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖: 𝐇𝐈𝐉𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐃
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: 𝐏𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐕 𝐃𝐇𝐘𝐀𝐍𝐈
• What do you want more from a book? - a book with the author's personal experience, hijacking, and a thriller. Oh yes, and also 𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.
• From the very first page, author aka 21 year old deck officer in training on a cargo merchant vessel Pralav Dhyani's HIJACKED makes the prominent point to put the title to its appropriate position. After knowing that this is the author's personal experience of being hijacked, it made me feel agony and wonder about how he felt - is this book able to capture enough words to express his fear, tension and the sadness?
• Pirates, 331 days - anything traumatizing than this? I think, no. The act of survival and the point if they can get back alive or not, stick in my mind. There's a part where the author proves himself as a savior and not a victim one which is simple to claim most of the time - author's bravery is saturable. Survival, human lives and exceptions - if you want to narrate this particular book then there is nothing better than these words.
• This book is an extreme narrative of the real life thriller genre. I love how the author captured his experience into this book but as a reader I felt an urge to avoid the part where the ship mechanics and mechanisms were being described, it felt unnecessary from a reader's point of view who wants to gulp the story only.
• This book certainly gives the chills but not to an extreme end. Though I fully sympathise with those who have gone through this extremity. This book focuses what's the reality of maritime services where there's no guarantee of life on the land, they're fighting for survival on the sea! Basic amenities, crew member's sufferings, struggle - a pain of survival, a fear to lead a life safely. And not all these, they're going through a psychological trauma, maybe which they can never get over.
• This book made me realize that we are extremely privileged - protected and loved and safe. When we enjoy each other's company, others may survive to live their own life with a tiny little hope.
• The narration, chapters and the story - there's no suggestion to who should read this particular book, rather it's basic not to let go of this experience which all readers should take.
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: 𝐏𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐕 𝐃𝐇𝐘𝐀𝐍𝐈
• What do you want more from a book? - a book with the author's personal experience, hijacking, and a thriller. Oh yes, and also 𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.
• From the very first page, author aka 21 year old deck officer in training on a cargo merchant vessel Pralav Dhyani's HIJACKED makes the prominent point to put the title to its appropriate position. After knowing that this is the author's personal experience of being hijacked, it made me feel agony and wonder about how he felt - is this book able to capture enough words to express his fear, tension and the sadness?
• Pirates, 331 days - anything traumatizing than this? I think, no. The act of survival and the point if they can get back alive or not, stick in my mind. There's a part where the author proves himself as a savior and not a victim one which is simple to claim most of the time - author's bravery is saturable. Survival, human lives and exceptions - if you want to narrate this particular book then there is nothing better than these words.
• This book is an extreme narrative of the real life thriller genre. I love how the author captured his experience into this book but as a reader I felt an urge to avoid the part where the ship mechanics and mechanisms were being described, it felt unnecessary from a reader's point of view who wants to gulp the story only.
• This book certainly gives the chills but not to an extreme end. Though I fully sympathise with those who have gone through this extremity. This book focuses what's the reality of maritime services where there's no guarantee of life on the land, they're fighting for survival on the sea! Basic amenities, crew member's sufferings, struggle - a pain of survival, a fear to lead a life safely. And not all these, they're going through a psychological trauma, maybe which they can never get over.
• This book made me realize that we are extremely privileged - protected and loved and safe. When we enjoy each other's company, others may survive to live their own life with a tiny little hope.
• The narration, chapters and the story - there's no suggestion to who should read this particular book, rather it's basic not to let go of this experience which all readers should take.
May 14, 2025
This is the story of the merchant navy officer of 331 days in the Somalian pirate area.A compelling story of hardship and the power of human resilience, it a first-person account of the perils of being a maritime officer and how treacherous life on the high seas can be not only deep water but other danger lurking at somewhere for hunt of there own survival.
On 11 April 2010, Pralav Dhyani, a freshly recruited deck officer in training on a cargo merchant vessel, was contemplating the intense discipline life at sea would require from him because his past mistakes in Canada and bad experience he wanted to change for his future and left Canada for good , and his family stand by him and help him choose a good career path for his bright future, but on his first mission, when armed pirates forcefully boarded the ship off the coast of Africa. His journey started as a casual fun loving picnic where they missed duties hours and drinking at irregular hours which led to problems but to put him straight, Captain Ram made sure that discipline should be ensued in person or life will take you on a dangerous journey. As later in the story, on their way when suddenly there ship had a failure engine and As confusion ensued, one thing became clear to the MV RAK Afrikana was being hijacked. It was the beginning of a nightmare that Pralav and all of twenty-one-has never been able to forget.
The crew was taken to an obscure location in Somalia, from where negotiations commenced with their ship's company for their release. For 331 days, the small band of men, who had come together from different countries to earn a living for their families, stuck together through mock executions and mental torture, terror and betrayal, but will power that they will return to there houses freely and everything gonna be okay, they been through enough ordeal but they stand and lost few due to bad health.
Once they got free and been through hell , now back to there houses, the transformation from the journey told them one should prepare for worst and life is much more meaningful then drunk parties and indiscipline behaviour and one should be prepared for any circumstances come what may to stand against it.
On 11 April 2010, Pralav Dhyani, a freshly recruited deck officer in training on a cargo merchant vessel, was contemplating the intense discipline life at sea would require from him because his past mistakes in Canada and bad experience he wanted to change for his future and left Canada for good , and his family stand by him and help him choose a good career path for his bright future, but on his first mission, when armed pirates forcefully boarded the ship off the coast of Africa. His journey started as a casual fun loving picnic where they missed duties hours and drinking at irregular hours which led to problems but to put him straight, Captain Ram made sure that discipline should be ensued in person or life will take you on a dangerous journey. As later in the story, on their way when suddenly there ship had a failure engine and As confusion ensued, one thing became clear to the MV RAK Afrikana was being hijacked. It was the beginning of a nightmare that Pralav and all of twenty-one-has never been able to forget.
The crew was taken to an obscure location in Somalia, from where negotiations commenced with their ship's company for their release. For 331 days, the small band of men, who had come together from different countries to earn a living for their families, stuck together through mock executions and mental torture, terror and betrayal, but will power that they will return to there houses freely and everything gonna be okay, they been through enough ordeal but they stand and lost few due to bad health.
Once they got free and been through hell , now back to there houses, the transformation from the journey told them one should prepare for worst and life is much more meaningful then drunk parties and indiscipline behaviour and one should be prepared for any circumstances come what may to stand against it.
May 7, 2025
Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani is a true story of endurance and resilience, plunging readers into the nightmare of a 21-year-old deck officer when Somali pirates seize control of his ship, the MV RAK Afrikana. What begins as a routine voyage spirals into a 331-day ordeal of terror, where every moment is laced with the threat of violence, psychological torment, and the haunting uncertainty of survival. As negotiations stretch on endlessly, Pralav confronts depths of human cruelty—and summon unimaginable strength to cling to hope.
This book delivers a raw and powerful glimpse into the unforgiving world of life at sea, where the threat of piracy turns routine into chaos. Through a gripping firsthand narrative, it captures fear, hope, and unbreakable resolve that define survival in the face of unrelenting danger. The author’s straightforward yet deeply evocative storytelling draws readers into every emotion—panic, perseverance, and the brotherhood forged in captivity. One of the most striking elements is the communication gap between the hostages and their captors—a silent battleground of confusion, tension, and desperation that adds another layer of intensity to this unforgettable tale.
Even without fully grasping the nautical jargon, I could still feel the gravity of their struggle—the desperation to protect themselves and the ship while trapped in a living nightmare. The author paints a hauntingly vivid portrait of the harrowing events aboard the RAK Afrikana, capturing every small, nerve-racking moment with clarity. His attention to detail pulls you deep into the chaos, making you feel as though you’re right there, holding your breath alongside the crew as they fight to survive.
This gripping account reads like a real-life thriller, keeping me on edge with every unpredictable twist and chilling demand. The story also subtly reveals the harsh realities of pirates that can drive such desperation. What stands out most is the author’s strength: he doesn’t see himself as a victim, but as a survivor. Ultimately, this is a powerful story of hope, resilience, and the unyielding will to survive.
This book delivers a raw and powerful glimpse into the unforgiving world of life at sea, where the threat of piracy turns routine into chaos. Through a gripping firsthand narrative, it captures fear, hope, and unbreakable resolve that define survival in the face of unrelenting danger. The author’s straightforward yet deeply evocative storytelling draws readers into every emotion—panic, perseverance, and the brotherhood forged in captivity. One of the most striking elements is the communication gap between the hostages and their captors—a silent battleground of confusion, tension, and desperation that adds another layer of intensity to this unforgettable tale.
Even without fully grasping the nautical jargon, I could still feel the gravity of their struggle—the desperation to protect themselves and the ship while trapped in a living nightmare. The author paints a hauntingly vivid portrait of the harrowing events aboard the RAK Afrikana, capturing every small, nerve-racking moment with clarity. His attention to detail pulls you deep into the chaos, making you feel as though you’re right there, holding your breath alongside the crew as they fight to survive.
This gripping account reads like a real-life thriller, keeping me on edge with every unpredictable twist and chilling demand. The story also subtly reveals the harsh realities of pirates that can drive such desperation. What stands out most is the author’s strength: he doesn’t see himself as a victim, but as a survivor. Ultimately, this is a powerful story of hope, resilience, and the unyielding will to survive.
May 15, 2025
The story questions WHAT WILL YOU DO WHEN YOU HAVE AN AK-47 POINTED AT YOUR HEAD AND ALL YOU HEAR IS THE SECONDS TICKING BY , SLOWLY ?????
BUT THIS ISN'T HOW IT'S SUPPOSED TO END.
So The story revolves around Pralav Dhyani , a naive deck officer who was training on a cargo merchant vessel.
This is a True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates" is a thought-provoking account of the author's real-life experience of being held captive by pirates. The book brilliantly conveys the sense of danger and uncertainty that pervades life on the ocean, where the threat of pirate attacks, harsh weather conditions, and equipment failures is ever-present .
The author's wide and vivid descriptions of the harsh conditions and brutal treatment at the hands of their captors are both chilling and realistic, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story. The emotional toll of the experience can be felt , and the reader can't help but feel a deep sense of empathy for the author and the crew members who suffered alongside them.
The book raises important questions about the human cost at maritime work and the sacrifices made by those who work in this industry. The contrast between the comforts of life on land and the harsh realities of life at sea is stark, and the author highlights the bravery and resilience of those who work in this field.
What stands out most is the author's bravery and determination to survive against all odds.
Because according to him" *IF YOUR MOTHER AND FATHER ARE WITH YOU,THE BOOK OF PRAYERS AND GOOD WISHES IS ALWAYS OPEN FOR YOU "*
The book is a powerful reminder of how these people survive with the chances of piracy right on their heads and the impact it has on the lives of those who got caught in its midst. The author's writing is evocative and engaging, making it easy to become invested in their story.
Overall, this is a compelling and thought-provoking true story that is sure to appeal to fans of maritime fiction and those interested in stories about the human condition. It's a haunting reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of hope in the darkest of times.
BUT THIS ISN'T HOW IT'S SUPPOSED TO END.
So The story revolves around Pralav Dhyani , a naive deck officer who was training on a cargo merchant vessel.
This is a True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates" is a thought-provoking account of the author's real-life experience of being held captive by pirates. The book brilliantly conveys the sense of danger and uncertainty that pervades life on the ocean, where the threat of pirate attacks, harsh weather conditions, and equipment failures is ever-present .
The author's wide and vivid descriptions of the harsh conditions and brutal treatment at the hands of their captors are both chilling and realistic, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story. The emotional toll of the experience can be felt , and the reader can't help but feel a deep sense of empathy for the author and the crew members who suffered alongside them.
The book raises important questions about the human cost at maritime work and the sacrifices made by those who work in this industry. The contrast between the comforts of life on land and the harsh realities of life at sea is stark, and the author highlights the bravery and resilience of those who work in this field.
What stands out most is the author's bravery and determination to survive against all odds.
Because according to him" *IF YOUR MOTHER AND FATHER ARE WITH YOU,THE BOOK OF PRAYERS AND GOOD WISHES IS ALWAYS OPEN FOR YOU "*
The book is a powerful reminder of how these people survive with the chances of piracy right on their heads and the impact it has on the lives of those who got caught in its midst. The author's writing is evocative and engaging, making it easy to become invested in their story.
Overall, this is a compelling and thought-provoking true story that is sure to appeal to fans of maritime fiction and those interested in stories about the human condition. It's a haunting reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of hope in the darkest of times.
May 28, 2025
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞:
"A true story of surviving 331 days with Somali pirates."
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬?
Curious about what drew me to this book? Just read the quote above once more. Intriguing, isn’t it? That’s exactly why I had to pick it up.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The cover design perfectly aligns with the book’s plot—it’s bold, gripping, and immediately evokes a sense of danger and suspense. Together with the title, it creates instant intrigue. That said, I personally feel a slightly brighter design could have enhanced its visibility.
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The narration flows at a balanced pace, adjusting speed as the story demands. The storytelling is coherent and well-structured, with mostly lucid language. Some Hindi phrases are included with English translations, and the first-person perspective adds an intimate, immersive touch.
𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧:
✓ This book chronicles the extraordinary and gut-wrenching experience of a young 21-year-old sailor who, along with his crew, was taken hostage by Somali pirates and endured 331 days of captivity aboard the RAK Afrikana. The sheer gravity of the situation and the resilience it took to survive such a prolonged nightmare left me deeply moved.
✓ This was an emotionally intense read for me. Knowing that the mock executions, mental torment, and daily horrors described actually happened is deeply unsettling.
✓ Beyond survival, the book highlights the immense courage of our marine officers and merchant vessel crews—something we often overlook.
✓ It takes immense bravery to revisit such trauma and share it with the world, and Pralav deserves immense respect for doing so with such honesty.
✓ I never once felt the author was exaggerating or dramatising the events. On the contrary, his raw and restrained tone made the reality hit even harder.
✓ For nonfiction lovers, this is an essential read. The narrative is so gripping that once you start, it’s difficult to put down—and when you do, you’ll likely be left staring at the wall, heart heavy, mind reeling.
May 5, 2025
Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani is a gripping real-life survival story that follows a young deck officer's terrifying 331-day ordeal after his ship, MV RAK Afrikana, was hijacked by Somali pirates. At just 21 years old, Pralav finds himself thrown into unimaginable danger, facing threats, torture, and uncertainty while negotiations for the crew’s release drag on for months.
I liked the crisp introduction right at the beginning of the book, which gives a detailed account of the main incident. I liked how that set the tone for the entire story ahead.
The story flow starts right from Pralay's university days in Canada and how he transitions his career into merchant navy.
This book offers an intense firsthand account of life at sea, the challenges of piracy, and the resilience of the human spirit. The author’s simple yet immersive writing style makes it easy to connect with his emotions—fear, hope, determination, and the deep bond formed between the crew.
The language barrier depicted between the captivated crew and the Somali pirates was also interesting to read.
I also enjoyed reading the mechanical aspects of the ship it was really intriguing to learn the intricacies of a ship and its functionality, it was really heartwarming to read every moment of team work and brotherhood, especially, the bond shared between Pralay and Mohammad the Chief Cook initially.
There are some dialogues written in roman Hindi along with the transition in English beside it and I feel that added an extremely genuine touch to the entire story.
It blends suspense, diplomacy, and psychological depth, offering a unique insight into maritime life and piracy.
A powerful mix of adventure, fear, and perseverance, Hijacked is highly recommended for fans of true survival stories, thrillers, and books that explore human resilience. It’s not just a story about being held hostage—it’s about the strength it takes to survive when everything seems lost.
I liked the crisp introduction right at the beginning of the book, which gives a detailed account of the main incident. I liked how that set the tone for the entire story ahead.
The story flow starts right from Pralay's university days in Canada and how he transitions his career into merchant navy.
This book offers an intense firsthand account of life at sea, the challenges of piracy, and the resilience of the human spirit. The author’s simple yet immersive writing style makes it easy to connect with his emotions—fear, hope, determination, and the deep bond formed between the crew.
The language barrier depicted between the captivated crew and the Somali pirates was also interesting to read.
I also enjoyed reading the mechanical aspects of the ship it was really intriguing to learn the intricacies of a ship and its functionality, it was really heartwarming to read every moment of team work and brotherhood, especially, the bond shared between Pralay and Mohammad the Chief Cook initially.
There are some dialogues written in roman Hindi along with the transition in English beside it and I feel that added an extremely genuine touch to the entire story.
It blends suspense, diplomacy, and psychological depth, offering a unique insight into maritime life and piracy.
A powerful mix of adventure, fear, and perseverance, Hijacked is highly recommended for fans of true survival stories, thrillers, and books that explore human resilience. It’s not just a story about being held hostage—it’s about the strength it takes to survive when everything seems lost.
May 9, 2025
"Hijacked: A true story of surviving 331 days with Somali pirates" by Pralav Dhyani is a gripping memoir that captures the terrifying experience of seafarers held hostage aboard the RAK Afrikana by Somali pirates. It all began on one quiet Sunday morning, the 11th of april- not just for one, two or three days, but 331 days of captivity!
Each day began with the pirates coming up with new ways to torture the crew members, both physically and mentally, making them feel vulnerable, with guns being pointed at their foreheads. And yet, amidst all this chaos, they endured. What kept all of them going was their unshakable willpower, the strength of their teamwork and, above all, captain's leadership and deep sense of duty.
*"The sun still shone brightly in the sky, but for us even darker days lay ahead."*
The days on the ocean were filled with uncertainty and a lot of questions: what will happen next? Will we ever make it out alive? Will we ever see our families again and live a life just like before? What if we run out of resources? What if all this never gets over?
Still the resilience never faded, and hope never died.
The experience not only changed the author as a person but also brought him closer to his loved ones, made him truly value his family, especially after all the mental turmoil they went through.
It's not just a story of pirates and pain. It's a story of hope, resilience and bravery.
As someone who has always been curious about life at sea, I found it fascinating how the book introduced me to technical terms and the inner workings of a ship. The raw dialogues and genuine tone are what made this narrative truly stand out. The story telling was so vivid that you could actually feel the tension in the scenes when something major happened.
I would definetely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys real-life survival stories or is curious about life aboard ships and what working at sea actually entails.
Each day began with the pirates coming up with new ways to torture the crew members, both physically and mentally, making them feel vulnerable, with guns being pointed at their foreheads. And yet, amidst all this chaos, they endured. What kept all of them going was their unshakable willpower, the strength of their teamwork and, above all, captain's leadership and deep sense of duty.
*"The sun still shone brightly in the sky, but for us even darker days lay ahead."*
The days on the ocean were filled with uncertainty and a lot of questions: what will happen next? Will we ever make it out alive? Will we ever see our families again and live a life just like before? What if we run out of resources? What if all this never gets over?
Still the resilience never faded, and hope never died.
The experience not only changed the author as a person but also brought him closer to his loved ones, made him truly value his family, especially after all the mental turmoil they went through.
It's not just a story of pirates and pain. It's a story of hope, resilience and bravery.
As someone who has always been curious about life at sea, I found it fascinating how the book introduced me to technical terms and the inner workings of a ship. The raw dialogues and genuine tone are what made this narrative truly stand out. The story telling was so vivid that you could actually feel the tension in the scenes when something major happened.
I would definetely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys real-life survival stories or is curious about life aboard ships and what working at sea actually entails.
May 25, 2025
⚫️Hijacked is a gripping and deeply human story about survival against all odds. In his debut book, Pralav Dhyani offers us more than just an exciting tale of piracy on the high seas he takes us on a raw and honest journey through fear, resilience, and the incredible strength of the human spirit.
⚫️The story kicks off with Dhyani starting his first job as a trainee deck officer on the MV RAK Afrikana, only to have that sense of security and purpose shattered in just a few days. When armed Somali pirates hijack the ship, Dhyani finds himself caught in a harrowing 331-day ordeal filled with uncertainty, psychological torment, and constant danger. With vivid and often heart-wrenching prose, he paints a striking picture of life in captivity one that includes mock executions, tense negotiations, and unexpected moments of humanity amid the chaos.
⚫️What sets Hijacked apart is its emotional honesty. Dhyani bravely shares the psychological toll of his experience, allowing readers to see not just the external threats, but also the internal battles of a young man striving to maintain his faith and honor in unimaginable circumstances. His authentic narrative voice transforms what could have been a simple survival story into something deeply reflective and inspiring.
⚫️The book's power lies not only in its nail-biting action but also in its subtle commentary on the human cost of piracy impacting sailors, their families, and the political and economic systems that allow such acts to persist. Dhyani skillfully weaves these themes throughout the narrative without losing sight of the emotional core of his story.
⚫️Hijacked is more than just a nautical thriller it's a heartfelt tribute to resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring strength of hope. Its impact will stay with you long after you turn the last page. This is a must-read for anyone who appreciates true stories of survival and the complexities of life on the open sea.
Happy reading ❤️✨
⚫️The story kicks off with Dhyani starting his first job as a trainee deck officer on the MV RAK Afrikana, only to have that sense of security and purpose shattered in just a few days. When armed Somali pirates hijack the ship, Dhyani finds himself caught in a harrowing 331-day ordeal filled with uncertainty, psychological torment, and constant danger. With vivid and often heart-wrenching prose, he paints a striking picture of life in captivity one that includes mock executions, tense negotiations, and unexpected moments of humanity amid the chaos.
⚫️What sets Hijacked apart is its emotional honesty. Dhyani bravely shares the psychological toll of his experience, allowing readers to see not just the external threats, but also the internal battles of a young man striving to maintain his faith and honor in unimaginable circumstances. His authentic narrative voice transforms what could have been a simple survival story into something deeply reflective and inspiring.
⚫️The book's power lies not only in its nail-biting action but also in its subtle commentary on the human cost of piracy impacting sailors, their families, and the political and economic systems that allow such acts to persist. Dhyani skillfully weaves these themes throughout the narrative without losing sight of the emotional core of his story.
⚫️Hijacked is more than just a nautical thriller it's a heartfelt tribute to resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring strength of hope. Its impact will stay with you long after you turn the last page. This is a must-read for anyone who appreciates true stories of survival and the complexities of life on the open sea.
Happy reading ❤️✨
May 5, 2025
Coming from a family in the shipping background, I’ve grown up hearing many stories, some are thrilling, some terrifying, but all deeply human. But the moment I came across Hijacked, I knew this wasn’t just another sea story. This was personal. Real. And it demanded to be read.
So the story goes like this. Pralav was just 21 and he was a young officer stepping into the sea with
dreams and discipline until one day pirates boarded his ship, and his life changed in that very instant.
Reading his story literally felt like sitting beside him, listening to the silence between those gunshots, the weight of waiting, and the strength it takes just to survive.
This isn’t just a tale of captivity. It is infact a tale of testament to human resilience.
Why I Liked It
☸️ The writing is raw and honest and it will make you feel every moment of fear, anger, and hope.
☸️ It doesn’t romanticize survival. It shows us how messy, emotional, and mentally exhausting it really is.
☸️ The bond between the crew men from different nations feels incredibly moving, emotional and real.
☸️ It sheds light on what it truly means to live life at sea, especially for the Indian officers.
☸️ The story never loses its pace; every chapter leaves you shaken and humbled.
Why You Should Read It
☸️ If you’ve ever wondered what piracy really looks like beyond the headlines, this book will open your eyes.
☸️ It’s a rare, firsthand Indian account of surviving modern-day piracy—a perspective we don’t often get to read.
☸️ This book is perfect for those who enjoy real-life survival stories that is filled with grit, emotion, and unfiltered truth.
☸️ It will make you pause and respect the seafarers who keep the world running, often in silence.
☸️ It is one such book that is bound to stay with you long after the last page, and I’m sure after reading it you’ll still think of Pralav and his crew.
So the story goes like this. Pralav was just 21 and he was a young officer stepping into the sea with
dreams and discipline until one day pirates boarded his ship, and his life changed in that very instant.
Reading his story literally felt like sitting beside him, listening to the silence between those gunshots, the weight of waiting, and the strength it takes just to survive.
This isn’t just a tale of captivity. It is infact a tale of testament to human resilience.
Why I Liked It
☸️ The writing is raw and honest and it will make you feel every moment of fear, anger, and hope.
☸️ It doesn’t romanticize survival. It shows us how messy, emotional, and mentally exhausting it really is.
☸️ The bond between the crew men from different nations feels incredibly moving, emotional and real.
☸️ It sheds light on what it truly means to live life at sea, especially for the Indian officers.
☸️ The story never loses its pace; every chapter leaves you shaken and humbled.
Why You Should Read It
☸️ If you’ve ever wondered what piracy really looks like beyond the headlines, this book will open your eyes.
☸️ It’s a rare, firsthand Indian account of surviving modern-day piracy—a perspective we don’t often get to read.
☸️ This book is perfect for those who enjoy real-life survival stories that is filled with grit, emotion, and unfiltered truth.
☸️ It will make you pause and respect the seafarers who keep the world running, often in silence.
☸️ It is one such book that is bound to stay with you long after the last page, and I’m sure after reading it you’ll still think of Pralav and his crew.
May 5, 2025
You know those moments when you pick up a book, thinking you'll read a few pages, and suddenly you're holding your breath, heart racing, completely pulled into someone else's reality? " Hijacked" did that to me.
It’s the real story of a 21-year-old boy—Pralav Dhyani—just starting his career in the Merchant Navy. Bright-eyed, hopeful… and then, pirates boarded his ship. Just like that, his life flipped. What was supposed to be a routine voyage turned into 331 days of captivity, fear, mock executions, mental breakdowns, and survival in the rawest form.
I won’t lie—reading this made my chest heavy. It’s not dramatized, not romanticized. It’s honest. It's uncomfortable. And that’s what makes it powerful.
This book is for anyone who wants to go beyond surface-level thrillers and dive into a story that’s painfully real and emotionally gripping. Whether you're into survival tales, real-life memoirs, or simply want to read something that shifts your perspective on safety, trauma, and resilience—Hijacked is for you. It’s especially meaningful for those who enjoy stories of inner strength, global human experiences, and untold truths of maritime life.
Through his simple writing, you feel everything—fear, betrayal, numbness, helplessness… but also courage, humanity, and the desperate hope to make it out alive. It made me pause and think about how easily we take our safety, our freedom, even a warm meal, for granted.
What stayed with me the most? The way these men, strangers at first, became each other’s strength. The way they held on when everything was trying to break them. And how trauma doesn’t end when you’re rescued—it lingers.
If you want to read something that grips you, moves you, and makes you appreciate the life you live—please, pick this up. It’s not just a survival story. It’s a deeply human one.
It’s the real story of a 21-year-old boy—Pralav Dhyani—just starting his career in the Merchant Navy. Bright-eyed, hopeful… and then, pirates boarded his ship. Just like that, his life flipped. What was supposed to be a routine voyage turned into 331 days of captivity, fear, mock executions, mental breakdowns, and survival in the rawest form.
I won’t lie—reading this made my chest heavy. It’s not dramatized, not romanticized. It’s honest. It's uncomfortable. And that’s what makes it powerful.
This book is for anyone who wants to go beyond surface-level thrillers and dive into a story that’s painfully real and emotionally gripping. Whether you're into survival tales, real-life memoirs, or simply want to read something that shifts your perspective on safety, trauma, and resilience—Hijacked is for you. It’s especially meaningful for those who enjoy stories of inner strength, global human experiences, and untold truths of maritime life.
Through his simple writing, you feel everything—fear, betrayal, numbness, helplessness… but also courage, humanity, and the desperate hope to make it out alive. It made me pause and think about how easily we take our safety, our freedom, even a warm meal, for granted.
What stayed with me the most? The way these men, strangers at first, became each other’s strength. The way they held on when everything was trying to break them. And how trauma doesn’t end when you’re rescued—it lingers.
If you want to read something that grips you, moves you, and makes you appreciate the life you live—please, pick this up. It’s not just a survival story. It’s a deeply human one.
May 23, 2025
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒎 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒖𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒕𝒆.“
.
.
🛳️ “Hijacked: A True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates” authored by Pralav Dhyani is a compelling memoir that vividly recounts the harrowing ordeal of seafarers held captive aboard the RAK Afrikana by Somali pirates. The narrative commences on a seemingly tranquil Sunday morning, April 11th, and unfolds over an agonizing 331 days of captivity. Each day, the pirates devised new methods of tormenting the crew, inflicting both physical and psychological distress, leaving them in a state of vulnerability with guns constantly aimed at their foreheads. Despite the overwhelming chaos, the crew persevered. This is a story of their resilience, fueled by an unwavering willpower, the strength of their collective teamwork, and, most importantly, the captain’s exemplary leadership with intense sense of duty.
.
🛳️ Initially, the novel progressed at a measured pace, but it soon began to unfold, captivating me entirely. What started as a meticulously crafted read swiftly transformed into an engaging and deeply emotional experience. This work transcends mere storytelling, providing a compelling and profound narrative of endurance. The narrative is intriguing making audiences engrossed from the very start to finish by the writer’s clear-cut and orderly writing style. He also makes an effort to depict the sequence considering the pirate' perspective. The novel serves as a potent reminder of the way these marine individuals manage to survive with the threat of piracy hovering over them and the detrimental impact it imposes on all those who get stuck within its crosshairs.
.
🛳️ Overall, readers who enjoy marine fictitious and narratives involving humankind will surely find this to be an engaging and intriguing factual plot. Recommending to every other reader out there!
.
.
🛳️ “Hijacked: A True Story of Surviving 331 Days with Somali Pirates” authored by Pralav Dhyani is a compelling memoir that vividly recounts the harrowing ordeal of seafarers held captive aboard the RAK Afrikana by Somali pirates. The narrative commences on a seemingly tranquil Sunday morning, April 11th, and unfolds over an agonizing 331 days of captivity. Each day, the pirates devised new methods of tormenting the crew, inflicting both physical and psychological distress, leaving them in a state of vulnerability with guns constantly aimed at their foreheads. Despite the overwhelming chaos, the crew persevered. This is a story of their resilience, fueled by an unwavering willpower, the strength of their collective teamwork, and, most importantly, the captain’s exemplary leadership with intense sense of duty.
.
🛳️ Initially, the novel progressed at a measured pace, but it soon began to unfold, captivating me entirely. What started as a meticulously crafted read swiftly transformed into an engaging and deeply emotional experience. This work transcends mere storytelling, providing a compelling and profound narrative of endurance. The narrative is intriguing making audiences engrossed from the very start to finish by the writer’s clear-cut and orderly writing style. He also makes an effort to depict the sequence considering the pirate' perspective. The novel serves as a potent reminder of the way these marine individuals manage to survive with the threat of piracy hovering over them and the detrimental impact it imposes on all those who get stuck within its crosshairs.
.
🛳️ Overall, readers who enjoy marine fictitious and narratives involving humankind will surely find this to be an engaging and intriguing factual plot. Recommending to every other reader out there!
May 10, 2025
Okay so , Hijacked legit messed with my head (in the best way ) . It’s the real story of , a merchant navy officer who got hijacked by Somali pirates . And not for a few days or weeks… man was stuck 331 DAYS . That’s nearly a whole damn year living in fear , on a ship , surrounded by pirates , with zero idea if or when he’d make it out .
The craziest part ? He doesn’t write it like a hero story . It’s real , raw and heartbreaking .You can feel the tension in the smallest moments like when they’re just waiting for food or praying that today’s not the day something goes wrong . The way he describes losing track of time , dealing with sickness , missing his family and trying to keep his brain sane - it hit hard.
There’s no action movie drama here . It’s quiet , slow and honestly , that makes it even scarier . Like you’re just stuck , floating in the middle of the ocean with no control over your life . The mental toll ? Wild . But the man held on - with hope , with faith , with pure mental grit .
Also , the writing style it’s super accessible . Doesn’t feel preachy or overly dramatic . Just straight up storytelling from someone who lived it .
The book isn't lengthy but it took me multiple sessions to go through it , my heart sank I don't even remember how many times . But to be honest this was the most moving read of the year , had me re-evaluating my life , my everyday privileges and specially the personal blocks that I keep thinking are the end of this world .
I think it's safe to say I'm not the same person I was before reading this one ( in a good way of course )
If you’re into true stories , survival vibes or just wanna read something that makes you rethink your whole life , Hijacked is 100% worth it .
May 1, 2025
Reading Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani was an unforgettable experience for me. This gripping true story recounts the author’s harrowing 331-day ordeal as a hostage of Somali pirates. From the very first page, I felt the weight of his fear and uncertainty, as he described the moment armed pirates stormed his ship: “When you have an AK-47 pointed at your head, all you hear is the seconds ticking by, slowly.” That line stayed with me, a chilling reminder of the fragility of safety.
What struck me most was the sheer courage and resilience displayed by Pralav and his fellow crew members. Despite facing mock executions, mental torture, and the constant threat of death, they found ways to support each other and hold on to hope. Pralav’s ability to endure such unimaginable circumstances was nothing short of inspiring. As he reflects, “Survival is not just about escaping danger—it’s about enduring when every moment feels like the end.” This sentiment resonated deeply, capturing the essence of human strength in the face of adversity.
The book also doesn’t shy away from the profound sense of loss—loss of freedom, time, and the innocence of a young man just starting his career. Pralav’s journey is raw and unfiltered, offering a stark look at the psychological scars left by such an ordeal. Yet, amidst the darkness, there’s a powerful message of hope and the unyielding will to survive.
Hijacked is more than just a survival story; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Pralav’s vivid storytelling and honest reflections make this book both haunting and inspiring. It’s a story that will stay with me for a long time.
What struck me most was the sheer courage and resilience displayed by Pralav and his fellow crew members. Despite facing mock executions, mental torture, and the constant threat of death, they found ways to support each other and hold on to hope. Pralav’s ability to endure such unimaginable circumstances was nothing short of inspiring. As he reflects, “Survival is not just about escaping danger—it’s about enduring when every moment feels like the end.” This sentiment resonated deeply, capturing the essence of human strength in the face of adversity.
The book also doesn’t shy away from the profound sense of loss—loss of freedom, time, and the innocence of a young man just starting his career. Pralav’s journey is raw and unfiltered, offering a stark look at the psychological scars left by such an ordeal. Yet, amidst the darkness, there’s a powerful message of hope and the unyielding will to survive.
Hijacked is more than just a survival story; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Pralav’s vivid storytelling and honest reflections make this book both haunting and inspiring. It’s a story that will stay with me for a long time.
May 6, 2025
On 11 April 2010, Pralav Dhyani, 21, a freshly minted deck officer in training on a cargo merchant vessel, was contemplating the intense discipline life at sea would require from him, when armed pirates forcefully boarded the ship off the coast of Africa. It was the beginning of a nightmare he would never be able to forget - the MV RAK Afrikana was being hijacked.
I'm not someone who usually reads a lot of non-fiction, but this book was impossible to put down. Each and every sentence just draws you into this world of terror. The writing is simple and straight-forward making it an easy yet gripping read. The pacing is steady and action packed, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout.
The crew consisted of people from different countries who had come together to earn a living for their families. During 331 days of captivity, they battled homesickness, the insults and mental torture, fear and betrayal clinging to the hope that freedom would come the next day. The trauma they endured lingers long after the ordeal ends.
This is a powerful story of human resilience and survival. It shows how people from different national and cultural backgrounds came together and helped each other during a life-threatening crisis. It made me feel deeply grateful for my own freedom, family and loved ones.
I especially loved the epilogue, it was beautifully written and deeply moving. One line in particular stayed with me - 'we are nothing without the people who love us'.
If you are somebody who loves a good thriller, true crime stories or a fan of memoirs and biographies you should definitely pick this up!
~ 4 stars
I'm not someone who usually reads a lot of non-fiction, but this book was impossible to put down. Each and every sentence just draws you into this world of terror. The writing is simple and straight-forward making it an easy yet gripping read. The pacing is steady and action packed, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout.
The crew consisted of people from different countries who had come together to earn a living for their families. During 331 days of captivity, they battled homesickness, the insults and mental torture, fear and betrayal clinging to the hope that freedom would come the next day. The trauma they endured lingers long after the ordeal ends.
This is a powerful story of human resilience and survival. It shows how people from different national and cultural backgrounds came together and helped each other during a life-threatening crisis. It made me feel deeply grateful for my own freedom, family and loved ones.
I especially loved the epilogue, it was beautifully written and deeply moving. One line in particular stayed with me - 'we are nothing without the people who love us'.
If you are somebody who loves a good thriller, true crime stories or a fan of memoirs and biographies you should definitely pick this up!
~ 4 stars
May 8, 2025
"Hijacked," by author Pralav Dhyani, is the real story of hardship, struggle, uncertainty, hope, survival, and resilience. The novel sheds light on the piracy that prevails in the African region and makes readers realize the truth and actual happenings during a pirate attack.
Pralav Dhyani was a young deck cadet on his first voyage on a merchant ship. On April 11, 2010, their ship, the 'RAK Africana,' was hijacked while moving from Seychelles to Zanzibar. It was the day when the ship's engine was not working well and was undergoing maintenance. It was then that the ship was attacked and hijacked by Somali pirates. The pirates were armed and forced the crew members to sail the ship towards Somalia. The piracy was executed obviously for ransom, which was demanded from the ship's owner, Captain Aarya.
Through this book, author Pralav shares his honest and real experiences of the 331 days they were held hostage by Somali pirates. He illustrates how the tough times made the crew members get to know each other better. He not only shares the hardships they faced but also provides details about the pirates and their lives. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months; the crew members suffered physically and mentally, but their resilience shone through during the 331 days of captivity.
Author Pralav's writing is easy to read and understand. There are moments where readers can feel his fears and emotions, such as missing his parents, but his courage also stands out until the end.
If you are a fan of gripping, informative, and inspiring nonfiction books and tales of resilience and survival, don't hesitate to grab this book.
Pralav Dhyani was a young deck cadet on his first voyage on a merchant ship. On April 11, 2010, their ship, the 'RAK Africana,' was hijacked while moving from Seychelles to Zanzibar. It was the day when the ship's engine was not working well and was undergoing maintenance. It was then that the ship was attacked and hijacked by Somali pirates. The pirates were armed and forced the crew members to sail the ship towards Somalia. The piracy was executed obviously for ransom, which was demanded from the ship's owner, Captain Aarya.
Through this book, author Pralav shares his honest and real experiences of the 331 days they were held hostage by Somali pirates. He illustrates how the tough times made the crew members get to know each other better. He not only shares the hardships they faced but also provides details about the pirates and their lives. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months; the crew members suffered physically and mentally, but their resilience shone through during the 331 days of captivity.
Author Pralav's writing is easy to read and understand. There are moments where readers can feel his fears and emotions, such as missing his parents, but his courage also stands out until the end.
If you are a fan of gripping, informative, and inspiring nonfiction books and tales of resilience and survival, don't hesitate to grab this book.
May 9, 2025
Hijacked is a gripping, real-life story of 21 year old Deck Officer @pralavfromthesea who endured 331 days in captivity after Somali pirates seized the MV RAK Afrikana. It is not just a story of survival; it is a journey through terror, resilience and the unbreakable human spirit.
The story immediately sets itself apart from conventional reading. What attracted me was its raw honesty and the harsh reality it portrays, a world far removed from everyday life, yet a world that forces you to think deeply about yourself. The writing is simple, accessible and emotionally charged.
But beyond the action and psychological trauma, what stays with you is the emotional aftermath that is beautifully captured in the epilogue. Pralav sir reflects on the invaluable bond of family and the strength that love provides in the face of darkness. As he writes,
"The bond of family must be protected and cherished. We are nothing without those who love us."
These words don't just close a chapter they leave a mark on the reader's heart.
This book doesn't just describe an event - it evokes gratitude. Gratitude for freedom, for loved ones and for the everyday moments we often overlook. It forces you to stop and ask yourself how will I survive such an ordeal? The truth is, most of us won't. But through Pralav sir journey we are reminded that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can endure.
A haunting, powerful and emotionally resonant book. Hijacked is more than a memoir - it is a testimony to courage, a tribute to humanity and a celebration of life. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a true story that will stir and uplift the soul.
The story immediately sets itself apart from conventional reading. What attracted me was its raw honesty and the harsh reality it portrays, a world far removed from everyday life, yet a world that forces you to think deeply about yourself. The writing is simple, accessible and emotionally charged.
But beyond the action and psychological trauma, what stays with you is the emotional aftermath that is beautifully captured in the epilogue. Pralav sir reflects on the invaluable bond of family and the strength that love provides in the face of darkness. As he writes,
"The bond of family must be protected and cherished. We are nothing without those who love us."
These words don't just close a chapter they leave a mark on the reader's heart.
This book doesn't just describe an event - it evokes gratitude. Gratitude for freedom, for loved ones and for the everyday moments we often overlook. It forces you to stop and ask yourself how will I survive such an ordeal? The truth is, most of us won't. But through Pralav sir journey we are reminded that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can endure.
A haunting, powerful and emotionally resonant book. Hijacked is more than a memoir - it is a testimony to courage, a tribute to humanity and a celebration of life. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a true story that will stir and uplift the soul.
May 14, 2025
Review :
Think about this: you are 21 years old, going on your first voyage as a deck cadet in a merchant ship. You would be enthusiastic; you would be thinking of all the possibilities ahead of you, but then you faced the most life-threatening situation in this very one. You get abducted by the pirates. And in this book, Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani, the author shares that heart-pounding, very real experience of his life. Which can surpass any amazing thriller.
The author starts the book with his early life, where he used to be a 'brat' and full of energy, and also the way the author portrays his confusion about the future and what he should do and how he gets this job at the end. It's short but entertaining, and you will be hooked nonetheless.
Then the author shares his hard and new life on the ship. How they connect with each other, how they enjoy their life, even when they are confined in that ship and stuck with each other. Then how they have to be always alert and keep doing their work without any break will give you enthusiasm as well as respect for all the people who chose this hard work.
Then the next part is when they are abducted by the pirates, who don't know English or any language with which they can communicate. The high-stakes situation they face is more than a fiction can offer.
This is a kind of nonfiction book that will be with you for a long time, and you keep thinking about how there are people who faced this fictional world and lived to tell the tale. I love reading the book and highly recommend it to every single reader out there.
Think about this: you are 21 years old, going on your first voyage as a deck cadet in a merchant ship. You would be enthusiastic; you would be thinking of all the possibilities ahead of you, but then you faced the most life-threatening situation in this very one. You get abducted by the pirates. And in this book, Hijacked by Pralav Dhyani, the author shares that heart-pounding, very real experience of his life. Which can surpass any amazing thriller.
The author starts the book with his early life, where he used to be a 'brat' and full of energy, and also the way the author portrays his confusion about the future and what he should do and how he gets this job at the end. It's short but entertaining, and you will be hooked nonetheless.
Then the author shares his hard and new life on the ship. How they connect with each other, how they enjoy their life, even when they are confined in that ship and stuck with each other. Then how they have to be always alert and keep doing their work without any break will give you enthusiasm as well as respect for all the people who chose this hard work.
Then the next part is when they are abducted by the pirates, who don't know English or any language with which they can communicate. The high-stakes situation they face is more than a fiction can offer.
This is a kind of nonfiction book that will be with you for a long time, and you keep thinking about how there are people who faced this fictional world and lived to tell the tale. I love reading the book and highly recommend it to every single reader out there.
May 14, 2025
I never imagined I would love a nonfiction book, especially a memoir of someone like this. I can say that I really enjoyed each and every page of this book without any boredom and I actually finished this book in just a couple of sittings.
This book is the story of the author, being a deck cadet in the merchant ship RAK Africana which was hijacked by Somali Pirates. All these days I only listened to the fictional stories of the pirates and their atrocities, but for the first time reading about the original experience of facing real pirates gave me goosebumps and this journey was quite interesting, adventurous, exciting and brutally honest but as well as gave a fun read vibe…
The journey from being a brat to becoming a cadet in a merchant ship and being a survivor from the hijacked ship is filled with lots of fear, resilience, hope, uncertainties, brutal facts and strength of bonding between the crew members is truly inspiring and worthwhile to read. Honestly, who wants to be attacked by pirates in their initial journey of their careers as a cadet in merchant ships…
The narrative was straight forward and yet quite engaging enough to make readers feel as if some friend is narrating their adventure story… That's the main part I absolutely love in this book… This perfect and bold narration of incidents made this one of my favourite books in nonfiction…
Even if you are a fan of fiction, I genuinely suggest you give this book a try for sure… I'm sure you'll fall in love with non-fictions too… And for non-fiction readers I feel that this one is a different kind of narrative style that you don't see often… So do grab the book and Happy Reading 💝 😊…
This book is the story of the author, being a deck cadet in the merchant ship RAK Africana which was hijacked by Somali Pirates. All these days I only listened to the fictional stories of the pirates and their atrocities, but for the first time reading about the original experience of facing real pirates gave me goosebumps and this journey was quite interesting, adventurous, exciting and brutally honest but as well as gave a fun read vibe…
The journey from being a brat to becoming a cadet in a merchant ship and being a survivor from the hijacked ship is filled with lots of fear, resilience, hope, uncertainties, brutal facts and strength of bonding between the crew members is truly inspiring and worthwhile to read. Honestly, who wants to be attacked by pirates in their initial journey of their careers as a cadet in merchant ships…
The narrative was straight forward and yet quite engaging enough to make readers feel as if some friend is narrating their adventure story… That's the main part I absolutely love in this book… This perfect and bold narration of incidents made this one of my favourite books in nonfiction…
Even if you are a fan of fiction, I genuinely suggest you give this book a try for sure… I'm sure you'll fall in love with non-fictions too… And for non-fiction readers I feel that this one is a different kind of narrative style that you don't see often… So do grab the book and Happy Reading 💝 😊…
May 25, 2025
🌊I first learned about the existence of Somali pirates while studying the Law of the Seas and was always intrigued to know more. So, when I came across this book which recounts the story of a ship being hijacked for 331 days by Somali pirates, I couldn't wait to devour it.
🚢
🌊This book is a nerve-wracking read, narrated by Deck Officer Pralav Dhyani, whose cargo merchant ship was hijacked off the coast of Africa. The distress of a 21-year-old fighting to survive the clutches of these notorious pirates, with the constant thought that this is not how the journey should end, makes for an absolutely chilling and adventurous story to recollect.
🚢
🌊What stands out is how this book transforms us into witnesses of a compelling real-life ordeal, vividly describing physical and mental torment in an engaging way that keeps you hooked until the very last page.
🚢
🌊It’s a deeply raw first-person account of human resilience, an indomitable spirit, and survival—interwoven with the complex web of international diplomacy that eventually led to their rescue. The story paints a striking picture of fear and tension over nearly 11 months of captivity in an obscure location, where every day felt like walking on eggshells. It also offers glimpses into the murky layers of complicated political dynamics behind such events.
🚢
🌊This is a true story everyone should read, whether you're a history enthusiast or a fan of survival narratives. It reveals the darkness beneath the beautiful oceans we romanticize, lifting the veil to expose the harsh reality of terror, betrayal, and fear endured by ordinary seafarers working in maritime zones and on the high seas.
🚢
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews