The Legendary Stand of Rezang La to be immortalised on Screen
One of the most profound stories of valour in Indian military history is set to be brought to the silver screen, with actor Farhan Akhtar portraying the legendary Major Shaitan Singh Bhati. The upcoming film, titled 120 Bahadur, will chronicle the extraordinary courage of a small company of soldiers who faced insurmountable odds during the 1962 Sino-Indian War, etching their names into the annals of heroism. Their story is a powerful tribute to the human spirit and the ultimate sacrifice for one's country.
The film is based on the historic Battle of Rezang La, which took place on November 18, 1962. At the snow-dusted heights of Ladakh, Major Shaitan Singh was the commanding officer of Charlie Company, 13th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment. He and his 120 soldiers were tasked with defending the crucial Chushul airstrip from a massive Chinese offensive. Vastly outnumbered and outgunned, the soldiers, under Major Singh's inspirational leadership, stood their ground with unwavering resolve. They fought until the last man and the last round, demonstrating a level of bravery that has become legendary.
The resistance offered by Charlie Company was nothing short of heroic. Of the 120 soldiers who fought at Rezang La, 114 were martyred, including Major Singh himself. Their incredible sacrifice was not in vain; they successfully delayed the Chinese advance, providing invaluable time for other Indian units to regroup. For his exceptional leadership, unwavering courage, and the ultimate sacrifice, Major Shaitan Singh was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest wartime gallantry award.
120 Bahadur aims to capture the emotional depth and historical significance of this powerful story. The war drama is being directed by Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai and is a joint venture between Excel Entertainment and Trigger Happy Studios. The project is backed by a strong team of producers, including Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, and Amit Chandrra. The narrative has been carefully crafted, with the story and screenplay penned by Rajiv G. Menon and dialogues by the acclaimed writer Sumit Arora, ensuring an authentic and impactful retelling.
To complement the film's intense and emotional narrative, the musical score is being composed by the talented Amit Trivedi, with lyrics by the veteran Javed Akhtar. This collaboration promises a soundtrack that will enhance the stirring story of bravery and sacrifice.
120 Bahadur is more than just a war film; it is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of the soldiers who gave their all for their nation. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on November 21, 2025, serving as a powerful reminder of the valor of the men of the 13 Kumaon Regiment and their heroic leader, whose name continues to inspire awe and reverence.
Image source: Bollywood Bubble
