Farhan Akhtar returns to the big screen with a gripping portrayal of Major Shaitan Singh in the upcoming war film 120 Bahadur, which pays tribute to the heroic stand of 120 Indian soldiers against 3,000 Chinese troops during the 1962 Battle of Rezang La. The film’s teaser offers a powerful glimpse into this lesser-known but legendary battle that unfolded during the Sino-Indian War.
Directed by Razneesh Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar (Excel Entertainment), and Amit Chandrra (Trigger Happy Studios), 120 Bahadur is set for theatrical release on November 21, 2025. The film also features Vivan Bhatena, Ankit Siwach, Eijaz Khan, and Raashii Khanna in key roles. This marks Akhtar’s return to acting after a four-year break, his last appearance being in Toofaan.
The teaser introduces Akhtar as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati of the Kumaon Regiment, who led the defense at Rezang La, situated at an altitude of 16,000 feet, near the crucial village of Chushul in Ladakh. Despite facing brutal sub-zero temperatures and overwhelming enemy numbers, Singh and his men held their ground. Singh was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour, for his bravery.
The teaser begins in a hospital setting, where an injured soldier recalls the intense and courageous moments of the Battle of Rezang La. It then shifts to powerful visuals of Indian soldiers braving sub-zero temperatures as they prepare for combat, showcasing their determination and unity under the leadership of Major Shaitan Singh. Akhtar’s character is seen addressing his battalion with a stirring speech, emphasizing that wearing the Indian Army uniform requires immense courage, the spirit of sacrifice, and an unwavering refusal to retreat. He declares that falling back is something he simply cannot accept.
The Battle of Rezang La stands out as a powerful display of courage during an otherwise challenging phase of the 1962 war. On November 18, Chinese forces launched an assault on C Company of 13 Kumaon. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Indian soldiers inflicted heavy casualties. The Chinese ultimately broke through by attacking from the rear, shortly before a ceasefire was declared.