Director Razneesh Ghai delivers a gripping war drama with 120 Bahadur, a film that immortalizes the courage and resilience of Major Shaitan Singh and his soldiers. Starring Farhan Akhtar in a standout performance, this 2025 release brings to life one of India’s most heroic battles during the 1962 Indo-China war.
Quick Facts
- Release Date: November 21, 2025
- Director: Razneesh Ghai
- Cast: Farhan Akhtar
- Genre: War Drama
- Runtime: Not yet disclosed
- Rating: Not yet rated
- Box Office: To be determined
Storyline
Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Rezang La, 120 Bahadur tells the extraordinary story of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, a Param Vir Chakra awardee, and his battalion from the 13 Kumaon Regiment. Vastly outnumbered, 120 Indian soldiers made an unforgettable last stand against 3,000 Chinese troops in the freezing heights of Ladakh.
The film delivers an emotionally charged narrative that showcases leadership, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of these soldiers, staying true to history while avoiding unnecessary melodrama.
Cinematic Brilliance
Visually, 120 Bahadur is stunning. Cinematographer Tetsuo Nagata captures the stark beauty and harsh realities of Ladakh, immersing the audience in the unforgiving battlefield. The realistic visual effects amplify the scale of combat without overshadowing its authenticity.
Sound design plays a key role in enhancing the experience, capturing both the chaos of war and moments of deep reflection. Amit Trivedi’s soul-stirring score blends patriotic undertones with haunting melodies, heightening the film’s emotional impact.
The production team ensures historical accuracy, meticulously recreating uniforms, weaponry, and military tactics. The editing maintains a fine balance between intense battle sequences and heartfelt character moments.
Performances
Farhan Akhtar delivers a stellar portrayal of Major Shaitan Singh, embodying his resilience and leadership with gripping intensity. His transformation into the revered war hero is both inspiring and emotionally moving.
The supporting cast further enriches the narrative, portraying the camaraderie and struggles of the soldiers with authenticity. Director Razneesh Ghai, known for Dhaakad, skillfully blends large-scale action with a compelling human story, ensuring the film resonates beyond the battlefield.
Strengths & Challenges
Strengths:
- Captivating Storytelling: A true tale of heroism told with emotional depth.
- Exceptional Performances: Farhan Akhtar shines in one of his finest roles.
- Technical Excellence: Breathtaking visuals and immersive sound design enhance the realism.
Challenges:
- Limited International Appeal: The historical context may not connect as strongly with global audiences.
- Familiar War Tropes: Some moments follow expected war movie patterns, though they remain impactful.
Entertainment Value
For fans of Border and Uri: The Surgical Strike, 120 Bahadur is a must-watch. It successfully blends high-stakes action with emotional storytelling, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience for history buffs and war film enthusiasts alike.
Final Verdict
Rating: 9/10
120 Bahadur is a masterful war drama that stands as a fitting tribute to India’s unsung military heroes. With its compelling narrative, outstanding performances, and technical brilliance, it leaves a lasting impact.
