Bollywood has often shied away from showing real battles with China. However, “120 Bahadur” finally breaks that silence, bringing the audience face-to-face with one of India’s most unforgettable moments of bravery — the Battle of Rezang La (21 November 1962).
The film tells the true story of 120 soldiers of Charlie Company of the Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Shaitan Singh, who stood their ground till the last bullet and last breath to defend the Chushul Airfield. Although India lost the Sino-Indian war, Rezang La remains a symbol of unbreakable national pride.
🌟 Story & Setting — A Battle Recreated With Precision
The film is set in the frozen Himalayan battlefield, where oxygen is low, temperature is unforgiving, and survival is nearly impossible.
Yet, these young soldiers — mostly Ahirs from Haryana and Rajasthan — never step back.
The flashback narration by the radio operator adds emotional depth and shows how ordinary young men become legends under fire.
🎭 Performances — Farhan Akhtar Leads With Fire and Emotion
Farhan Akhtar gives one of his most controlled, disciplined, and powerful performances.
He balances:
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Authority
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Calmness under pressure
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Unshakable patriotism
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Deep empathy for his men
His expressions do more than loud dialogue could do. His transformation of Major Shaitan Singh into a spiritual and emotional pillar is remarkable. He is not just a commander — he becomes the soul of the film.
The supporting cast — Rashii Khanna, Vivan Bhatena, Ankit Siwach, Ajinkya Deo, and Eijaz Khan — amplify the story with raw energy and vulnerability.
🎬 Direction & Technical Brilliance
Director Razneesh Ghai delivers a technically sharp and emotionally charged film that avoids forced jingoism and celebrates real sacrifice instead of slogans.
Key cinematic strengths:
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Realistic military manoeuvres
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Jaw-dropping cold-desert visuals by Japanese cinematographer Tetsuo Nagata
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Visceral hand-to-hand combat scenes
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A memorable confrontation between Major Shaitan and a Chinese general
The camera angles used to show the dominance and height advantage of Chinese troops add realism and tension.
💡 What Makes “120 Bahadur” Different from Typical War Films
Unlike many Bollywood war films, 120 Bahadur is not loud — it is honest.
The film emphasizes:
✔ Cultural identity of Ahir soldiers
✔ The bond between caste identity & national purpose
✔ Humor, youthfulness, and brotherhood among troops
✔ Faith in Lord Krishna and the war cry “Dada Kishan Ki Jai”
This emotional layer makes the victory — and the loss — hit harder.
⚠️ Minor Weak Points
Although the film is powerful, it is not flawless:
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Accent inconsistency among supporting cast
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A few predictable emotional beats
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Slight pacing dips during family flashbacks
However, none of these derail the impact of the story.
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🎯 Final Verdict — Should You Watch “120 Bahadur”?
YES. Without a doubt.
“120 Bahadur” is not just a movie —
✨ It is a reminder of what courage looks like.
✨ It is a tribute we should have seen years ago.
With Farhan Akhtar’s unforgettable performance and immaculate filmmaking, this film deserves the attention of every Indian.
⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5
A must-watch for every cinema lover and every proud Indian.
📌 FAQs — 120 Bahadur Movie Review
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is “120 Bahadur” based on a true story? | Yes. It is based on the Battle of Rezang La (1962) led by Major Shaitan Singh. |
| Is the movie very emotional? | Yes. It balances action and emotion, making viewers deeply invested in the soldiers. |
| Is “120 Bahadur” similar to “URI”? | No. URI focuses on modern warfare, while “120 Bahadur” focuses on raw survival and last-stand courage. |
| Can children watch it? | Yes, although battle scenes can be intense. Parental guidance is recommended. |
| Is the film worth watching in theatres? | Absolutely. The scale, visuals, and sound make it a big-screen experience. |
