Director Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai opened up about choosing Farhan Akhtar for playing Major Shaitan Singh in 120 Bahadur!

Farhan Akhtar’s upcoming war epic 120 Bahadur unfolds the untold saga of the legendary Battle of Rezang La. Set amidst the unforgiving winters of the 1962 India-China War, the film brings to life an extraordinary chapter of bravery, where 120 valiant soldiers of the 13 Kumaon Regiment stood firm against insurmountable odds, etching their names in history with unparalleled courage. While Farhan Akhtar will be seen playing Major Shaitan Singh in the film, director Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai shared why he chose Farhan for this role.

Speaking about his admiration for Farhan, the director Razneesh Ghai’s shared, “For me, it was his sincerity. Whether it’s Bhaag Milkha Bhaag or the other roles he has taken on, there is an honesty he brings to every performance that I’ve always admired. When he said yes, I was absolutely delighted.” Razneesh also believes that this sincerity is a quality that shines through in all of Farhan’s work and was important for playing the character of Major Shaitan Singh. Although the two have worked on commercials together before, Razneesh mentions that this project was “on an entirely different scale.”

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Razneesh further praised Farhan for never letting his own directorial experience interfere with his role as an actor. He said, “Being a filmmaker himself, Farhan understands what it takes to mount a story of this nature. Yet, not once did he wear his director’s hat on set. If he had a suggestion, he would always come with, ‘Razy, if I may…’—that kind of humility and respect is rare.”

The director also praised the work ethic and dedication that Farhan Akhtar brought to the role. He said, “The way he prepares for a role, the hard work he puts in—it’s remarkable.” This shared commitment to their work indeed created a strong bond between the actor and the director. He concluded by saying, “I see a lot of myself in him, because I too am a perfectionist. That’s why we got along so well, and shooting this film with him was an absolute joy.”

120 Bahadur is based on the incredible true story of the 120 Indian soldiers who held their ground during the Battle of Rezang La in 1962, one of the bravest last stands in Indian military history.

And at the heart of it all : one unwavering line echoes through the film: “Hum Peechhe Nahin Hatenge.”

Directed by Razneesh Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar (Excel Entertainment), and Amit Chandrra (Trigger Happy Studios), the film is an Excel Entertainment production. Releasing in cinemas on 21st November 2025!