Farhan plays Major Shaitan Singh in '120 Bahadur'—Who was he
What's the story
Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar is all set to portray the role of Major Shaitan Singh in his upcoming film, 120 Bahadur. The film will showcase the Battle of Rezang La and the 1962 Indo-China war. Major Singh was a heroic army officer who played a crucial role in the 1962 Sino-Indian War and was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration. Here's more about him.
Historical context
Major Singh's heroic role in the 1962 Sino-Indian War
Born in 1924 in Rajasthan, Major Singh joined the Jodhpur State Forces and was the commanding officer of the Charlie Company of the 13th Kumaon Regiment. During the Battle of Rezang La, his company was vastly outnumbered by Chinese forces. However, he led a fierce defense and refused to retreat. He and 113 men fought valiantly to prevent Chushul from falling into Chinese hands.
Recognition
He was posthumously awarded with the India's highest military decoration
Major Singh's body was found with his right hand reportedly clutching his bullet-ridden stomach. His memorial was built at the spot where he fell during the battle. For his extraordinary bravery and leadership, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra. Moreover, this isn't the first film about Major Singh. Back in 2017, another movie featured Shehzaad Khan as Shaitan Singh, directed by Pankaj Sehgal.
Movie update
Akhtar shared first look as Major Singh on Wednesday
Akhtar took to Instagram to share the first look of his character on Wednesday. He expressed his gratitude to Major Singh's family for entrusting him with the portrayal. He wrote, "My deepest gratitude to the family of Maj Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC for trusting me with his portrayal. Your love and support means the world to us." The film is being produced by Ritesh Sidhwani under their banner Excel Entertainment. The shooting for the film has commenced in Ladakh.