Farhan Akhtar and team pay homage to Major Shaitan Singh’s legacy ahead of the film’s November release.
In one of Indian cinema’s most anticipated releases this year, the war epic “120 Bahadur” is set to bring a legendary chapter of military history to the big screen. As the trailer drops today, the film’s team, led by Farhan Akhtar, is marking the occasion not with a typical glitzy event, but with a solemn visit to Jodhpur to pay respects at the memorial of the man he portrays—Param Vir Chakra awardee, Major Shaitan Singh Bhati .
Directed by Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai, the film recounts the incredible true story of the Battle of Rezang La, a last stand that has become synonymous with raw courage and sacrifice .
A Story That Demanded to Be Told
The Legend of Rezang La
On November 18, 1962, in the biting cold of the Himalayas, a company of 120 soldiers from the 13 Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Shaitan Singh, found themselves facing an overwhelming force of thousands of Chinese soldiers . The pass they defended, Rezang La, was strategically critical, and their orders were clear: “Hum Peechhe Nahin Hatenge!” (We will not retreat) .
Despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned, these bravehearts fought to the last man, last bullet. Their heroic defense inflicted massive casualties on the enemy and delayed their advance, protecting the crucial Chushul sector . Major Shaitan Singh was posthumously awarded India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra, for his exemplary leadership and valor .
Bringing the Battle to Life with Authenticity
Director Razneesh Ghai, who is the son of an army man, took on the project with a deep sense of responsibility . To recreate the brutal conditions of the battle, which was fought at over 16,000 feet in temperatures as low as -24 degrees Celsius, the production undertook a monumental shoot .
The film was shot in Ladakh at an altitude of 14,000 feet, with a crew of 600 people battling sub-zero temperatures and a lack of oxygen . To ensure authenticity, the makers collaborated with Snow Business, the UK-based company behind the snowscapes in Game of Thrones and Harry Potter, to create realistic blizzards . The film also features a grueling 35-minute-long finale battle sequence, shot with a team that worked on the Oscar-winning war film All Quiet on the Western Front .
A Trailer Launch Steeped in Respect
An Emotional Homage
Today, on the day of the trailer launch, Farhan Akhtar and his co-star Raashii Khanna are visiting Jodhpur for an emotional tribute . In a moving gesture, they will first showcase the trailer privately to Major Shaitan Singh’s son, Narpat Singh Ji, and his family before its public unveiling . This act underscores the film’s commitment to honoring the real heroes behind the story.
A Stellar Cast and Crew
Produced by Excel Entertainment (Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar) and Trigger Happy Studios (Amit Chandra), 120 Bahadur boasts a talented team . The music is composed by Amit Trivedi and Salim-Sulaiman, with lyrics by the acclaimed Javed Akhtar . The cinematography is handled by Tetsuo Nagata, ensuring the film’s visual grandeur .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the release date for “120 Bahadur”?
120 Bahadur is scheduled for a theatrical release on November 21, 2025 .
Who are the main stars of the movie?
Farhan Akhtar plays the lead role of Major Shaitan Singh, while Raashii Khanna portrays his wife, Shagun Kanwari Singh . The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Vivan Bhatena, Ankit Siwach, and Eijaz Khan, among others .
Is “120 Bahadur” based on a true story?
Yes. The film is based on the real-life Battle of Rezang La that took place on November 18, 1962, during the Sino-Indian War . It tells the story of 120 soldiers from the Ahir community who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending their post .
Has the film faced any controversies?
Yes, the film has faced protests from sections of the Yadav (Ahir) community, who have demanded that the title be changed to ‘120 Veer Ahir’ to explicitly recognize the community of the soldiers . Protests have been held in Haryana and Rajasthan, with some groups threatening to boycott the film if their demands are not met .
A Story That Echoes Through Time
120 Bahadur is more than just a film; it’s an attempt to sear a foundational story of bravery into the nation’s collective memory. In an era where history can be forgotten, cinema has the power to resurrect it. This November, audiences will have the chance to witness the awe-inspiring sacrifice of 120 men who refused to back down.
Watch the trailer for “120 Bahadur” today and witness the legacy of the bravehearts of Rezang La when the film hits theatres on November 21, 2025.
