The much-awaited trailer of 120 Bahadur, starring Farhan Akhtar, has been released, offering audiences a powerful glimpse into one of India’s most heroic yet lesser-known battles — the Battle of Rezang La. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film is a stirring war drama that pays tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering spirit of the Indian soldiers who fought valiantly during the 1962 Indo-China war. The film is set for a theatrical release on November 21, 2025, and the trailer has already set social media abuzz with praise for its intensity and emotion.
A Tribute to India’s Unsung Heroes
120 Bahadur is not just another war movie — it’s a heartfelt retelling of a moment in history when 120 soldiers of the Indian Army’s 13 Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Shaitan Singh, held their ground against thousands of Chinese troops at Rezang La in Ladakh. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the soldiers fought till their last breath, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched bravery and patriotism.
The trailer captures this spirit beautifully — showcasing the biting cold, the brutal terrain, and the emotional weight of fighting for the motherland against impossible odds. Farhan Akhtar, who plays Major Shaitan Singh, delivers a commanding performance in the trailer, portraying both the calm leadership and fierce determination of a soldier who knew he was walking into history.
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Farhan Akhtar’s Powerful Portrayal
Farhan Akhtar, known for his versatility, steps into one of the most demanding roles of his career. From the very first frame, his body language, expressions, and intensity embody a man driven by duty, discipline, and deep love for his country.
The actor, who underwent extensive physical training for the role, reportedly spent weeks acclimatizing in Ladakh to understand the soldiers’ real conditions. His portrayal of Major Shaitan Singh — who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra — is being hailed by fans as one of his most authentic performances yet.
In one of the trailer’s most memorable lines, Farhan’s character declares, “Hum peeche nahi hatenge, yeh hamara vachan hai” (We will not retreat — this is our oath), setting the tone for a film that celebrates courage in its purest form.
Direction and Cinematic Scale
Director Aditya Dhar, best known for his National Award-winning film Uri: The Surgical Strike, brings his signature blend of realism and emotion to 120 Bahadur. The trailer reflects meticulous attention to detail — from the soldiers’ uniforms and weapons to the snow-laden landscapes of Ladakh.
Unlike typical war films that focus purely on action, 120 Bahadur emphasizes human emotion and sacrifice. The cinematography by Kamaljeet Negi captures both the grandeur of the Himalayas and the claustrophobic tension of battle, while the background score by Pritam builds an atmosphere that’s both patriotic and poignant.
Aditya Dhar said during the trailer launch, “This story deserves to be told on the biggest screen possible. It’s not just about war — it’s about the will of human spirit and the love for our nation.”
Supporting Cast and Performances
The film boasts an impressive supporting cast that includes Vicky Kaushal, Rajkummar Rao, Sunny Kaushal, Sobhita Dhulipala, and Neha Sharma. Each plays a soldier or family member connected to the heroes of Rezang La.
Vicky Kaushal, who makes a special appearance as a fellow officer, reportedly encouraged Farhan throughout the project, given his own experience with war films like Uri. The trailer briefly shows glimpses of the camaraderie among soldiers, their laughter amid chaos, and their emotional goodbyes before the final stand.
Music and Emotional Core
The music of 120 Bahadur is expected to be one of its highlights. The trailer features a haunting background score and a brief glimpse of a patriotic anthem, “Sarhad ke veer hum hain” (We are the warriors of the border), sung by Arijit Singh.
Pritam’s music is likely to play a crucial role in balancing the intensity of the battle scenes with the emotional depth of the soldiers’ stories. The film’s soundtrack promises to be both soul-stirring and inspirational, capturing the pride of the nation and the pain of sacrifice.
Audience Reaction and Expectations
Following its release, the trailer has quickly gone viral across social media platforms. Fans praised Farhan Akhtar’s transformation and the film’s realistic tone, calling it a “fitting tribute to real heroes.” Many compared its scale and emotion to classics like Border (1997) and LOC Kargil (2003).
The trailer’s emotional impact, particularly the final shot of Farhan saluting amidst gunfire, left viewers teary-eyed. On YouTube, the comments section is filled with messages of pride and respect for the Indian Armed Forces.
Film critics have also responded positively, with early reactions highlighting the trailer’s “unflinching realism” and “cinematic excellence.”
Historical Context: The Battle of Rezang La
The Battle of Rezang La took place on November 18, 1962, during the Sino-Indian War. The 13 Kumaon Regiment, consisting of 120 soldiers, defended their post at Rezang La, located at an altitude of 18,000 feet, against over 3,000 Chinese troops.
Despite being heavily outnumbered and running low on ammunition, the Indian soldiers refused to retreat. When reinforcements arrived days later, 114 of the 120 soldiers were found dead — still clutching their weapons, facing the enemy. Their courage and sacrifice became a symbol of India’s resilience and bravery.
The film 120 Bahadur brings this forgotten chapter back to life for a new generation, ensuring that the legacy of these heroes is remembered.
What Makes 120 Bahadur Special
Unlike conventional war films, 120 Bahadur focuses not just on victory but on honour, resilience, and brotherhood. The emotional layer of soldiers leaving behind their families, their unbreakable spirit, and their unwavering sense of duty makes it more than just a patriotic film — it’s a story of humanity under fire.
Farhan Akhtar’s voiceover in the trailer sums it up perfectly:
“Jab desh ne humse poocha, tum kya de sakte ho — humne kaha, sab kuch.”
(When the nation asked what we could give, we said — everything.)
Final Verdict
From its powerful performances and high production values to its emotionally charged storytelling, 120 Bahadur looks set to be one of India’s biggest war dramas in years. The trailer has already built huge anticipation, and with Farhan Akhtar leading the charge, audiences can expect a cinematic experience that celebrates real-life heroism.
If the film delivers on its promise, it may well become the next great patriotic epic — one that reignites pride in the hearts of millions.
