• By Tanya Garg
  • Mon, 23 Jun 2025 02:25 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Farhan Akhtar's inspirational movie 120 Bahadur is about real-life hero, Major Shaitan Singh  Bhati who braved the bone-chilling cold in the Chushlu sector on November 18, 1962, to engage 1,300 Chinese soldiers in the Battle of Rezang La. His valour molded one of the most illustrious last stands in Indian military history during the 1962 India-China war. This day is forever inscribed in the history of the Indian Army.

Farhan Akhtar shared the powerful poster on his social media and the caption read, "It’s been 62 years since 1962. Today, we honour the unparalleled courage and sacrifice of the heroes of Rezang La. 120 Bahadur is our tribute to the valor and the indomitable spirit of Major Shaitan Singh and his brave men, who stood their ground against insurmountable odds. Their story echoes through time, reminding us of the price of freedom and the strength of unity, with a special salute to the Ahir community, whose sons displayed unmatched bravery in defending our nation."

 
 
 
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Who Is Major Shaitan Singh?

Maj Shaitan Singh PVC was the commanding officer of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, and was born in Rajasthan in 1924. He along with his troop repelled a massive Chinese attack on the snow-capped peaks of Rezang La in Ladakh on November 18, 1962. Their unwavering fight marked their names in the annals of valor and guaranteed the safety of the vital Chushul airport.

India's highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra, was posthumously given to Maj Shaitan Singh PVC in recognition of his unmatched leadership and selflessness.

How Did The Battle End?

The renowned conflict came to an end with a truce, but many troops' bodies, including Major Bhati's, were never located. Three months later, the troops learned of the bodies buried beneath the snow. With a rope fastened to the feet using a machine pistol, Major Bhati's body was discovered resting close to a stone. He was thought to have shot the machine gun using his feet when his hands were not functioning. His unwavering bravery and selflessness were the reason the border was kept secure.

According to Honour Point, Charlie company had 124 men stationed at Rezang La, and 114 of them gave their lives. Five of them were captured as POWs, and one of them passed away while being held captive. Vir Chakra was given to the three platoon commanders - Jem Hari Ram, Jem Surja Ram, and Jem Ram Chander. This honour was also awarded to Naik Ram Kumar, the section commander of the 3-inch mortar station; Naik Gulab Singh and Lance Naik Singh Ram of company 7; and Naik Hukam Chand and Sep Dharampal Dahiya (nursing assistant) of platoon 8.

The highest wartime gallantry medal, the Param Vir Chakra, was given to Maj Shaitan Singh in recognition of his unwavering bravery, outstanding leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty.

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Major Shaitan Singh Bhati's statue is situated in Jodhpur's Pavta Circle. According to ETV Bharat, the Indian Army hosts a ceremony to honour its hero on this day every year, during which officers and ex-soldiers present the bust with floral wreaths.

About 120 Bahadur Movie

120 Bahadur is directed by Razneesh 'Razy' Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, and Amit Chandrra under the banners of Excel Entertainment and Trigger Happy Studios. Amit Trivedi composed the music, Javed Akhtar wrote the lyrics, Sumit Arora wrote the dialogue, and Rajiv G. Menon wrote the plot and screenplay. 120 Bahadur, a production by Excel Entertainment, opens in theaters on November 21, 2025.