120 Bahadur is an intense and emotional war drama that pays homage to one of the most heroic yet lesser-known battles in Indian military history—the Battle of Rezang La (1962). With Farhan Akhtar delivering a compelling performance as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, the film blends raw action with heartfelt sentiment, honouring the courage of the 120 soldiers who stood against nearly 3,000 Chinese troops.
A Story of Impossible Courage
Set against the harsh terrain of Ladakh, 120 Bahadur narrates the real-life story of the Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, almost entirely composed of Ahir soldiers. On a fateful November day, these 120 men—armed with limited ammunition—held their ground to protect the crucial Chushul valley.
Farhan Akhtar’s portrayal of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati stands out. He brings grit, conviction, and emotional depth, making the audience feel the weight of leadership, sacrifice, and patriotism. His battle cry and battlefield presence give the film its beating heart.
Action and Emotion Balanced with Bollywood Sensibilities
Director Razneesh Ghai delivers a war drama packed with:
- High-octane action sequences
- Stirring emotional moments
- Realistic wartime tension
- Nationalistic fervor
The final hour—dominated by close-combat scenes, desperation, and unbreakable spirit—is the film’s strongest section. It captures the claustrophobic chaos of war and the unyielding will of soldiers fighting against impossible odds.
The film does weave in personal flashbacks and a few familiar Bollywood tropes, including a colourful Holi song featuring Raashii Khanna. While these moments add emotional context, they sometimes disrupt the pacing.
Performances That Stay With You
- Farhan Akhtar is superb—controlled yet powerful.
- Raashii Khanna delivers impact in limited screen time.
- Sparsh Walia shines as the rookie radioman who becomes a key figure in the narrative.
- First-time actors playing the soldiers add authenticity and rawness.
The depiction of Chinese commanders is exaggerated and somewhat stereotypical, and the disbelief shown by higher-rank Indian officers feels odd given the film’s context. However, these flaws do not overshadow the film’s emotional and patriotic resonance.
A Tribute Worth Watching
Despite a few cinematic liberties and melodramatic edges, 120 Bahadur succeeds in its mission: to honour the bravery, brotherhood, and sacrifice of India’s unsung heroes. The final scenes—showing the soldiers giving their all for their motherland—leave the audience emotional and proud.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
120 Bahadur is a stirring, action-packed, and emotional tribute to the Rezang La warriors. Farhan Akhtar’s standout performance and the film’s powerful final hour make it a worthy watch for those who love patriotic dramas and war films.
