'120 Bahadur': Farhan Akhtar addresses title controversy, defends film
What's the story
Farhan Akhtar's upcoming film, 120 Bahadur, has been facing criticism from the Yadav community for its title. The protests were staged in Gurgaon last month as they felt the film ignored the contribution of Ahir soldiers. Addressing these concerns, Akhtar recently clarified that his film is not just about Major Shaitan Singh Bhati (PVC) but also pays tribute to all soldiers who fought in the battle.
Film focus
'If I wanted to make a film...'
In an interview with journalist Rajat Sharma, Akhtar said, "Sir, my answer has always been that if I just wanted to make a film on Major Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC, then I would have kept the title Shaitan Singh." "That would have been the easiest thing. There wouldn't have been any controversy. Everyone would have said that a film is being made on Shaitan Singh Ji PVC."
Film tribute
More on trailer dialogue honoring Ahir soldiers
Akhtar further defended his film by pointing out a dialogue from the trailer of 120 Bahadur that honors Ahir soldiers. The dialogue is, "Ahir Hai Hum, pyaar se maango ge toh jaan bhi de denge, lekin desh par baat aayi toh ek toh kya, 100 ki jaan le bhi lenge." He also emphasized that 120 Bahadur is not Major Singh's biopic but a tribute to every soldier's sacrifice.
Film details
Everything to know about '120 Bahadur'
Directed by Razneesh Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Akhtar (Excel Entertainment), and Amit Chandrra (Trigger Happy Studios), 120 Bahadur is set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025. The film also stars Raashii Khanna, Ajinkya Deo, and Ankit Siwach, among others. It tells the story of the legendary Battle of Rezang La during the Indo-China War of 1962.