120 Bahadur Review: A Necessary and Moving Tribute to Unheard Heroes
Star Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Ajinkya Deo, Sahib Verma, Sparsh Walia, Ankit Siwach, Eijaz Khan, Vivaan Bhatena, Raashii Khanna & Others
Director: Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai
Language: Hindi
Available On: Theatrical release
Runtime: 2 hour 17 minutes
Rating: 3.5
Review
120 Bahadur is a powerful act of restoration, immortalizing the courage of 120 Ahir soldiers who fought a Chinese battalion of 3,000 at Rezang La during the 1962 war. Facing insurmountable odds and lacking basic winter gear, Major Shaitan Singh Bhati (Farhan Akhtar) and his men refused to retreat, choosing duty and death over abandoning their post—a stark reminder of their profound sacrifice.
Star Performances
Farhan Akhtar delivers a brilliant and deeply moving performance, portraying Major Bhati with calm, relentless conviction that redefines courage. The narrative, structured as a countdown to a glorious end, dedicates its time to establishing the soldiers’ crushing responsibility. The battle sequence is physically exhausting and emotionally hollowed out, leaving a lasting impact. The supporting cast, particularly Sahib Verma and Sparsh Walia, also shine brightly.
Direction, Music and other technical elements
Director Razneesh Razy Ghai uses an unconventional, present-focused grammar, showing the soldiers as ordinary men who tease, fight, and miss home, but become extraordinary the moment they prioritize their duty. This grounded realism ensures the story is entirely focused on their valor. The Battle of Rezang La is presented not just as history, but as an essential act of selflessness for the national consciousness.
The film’s only noticeable technical weakness is its music. War films often thrive on adrenaline-pumping scores, but 120 Bahadur misses this target, with the background music occasionally faltering.
Final Verdict
120 Bahadur is a film that demands gratitude and acknowledgement rather than critique. It is a powerful salute to martyrs and their unheard stories. Farhan Akhtar’s powerful, calm performance ensures that Major Shaitan Singh Bhati and his 120 men are immortalized. The only fitting verdict for this tale of valor is a standing ovation.
