Farhan Akhtar’s upcoming war drama 120 Bahadur is gearing up for a historic rollout, becoming the first Indian film to screen across the entire defense theater network when it hits cinemas on November 21. The movie will reach more than 800 theatres dedicated to India’s armed forces — a massive milestone that blends mainstream cinema with military pride.
Based on the Battle of Rezang La, the film revisits one of India’s most heroic chapters from the 1962 Indo-China conflict. The story follows the 120 soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, who defended Ladakh’s icy heights at over 16,000 feet. Of the 120 brave hearts, 114 soldiers laid down their lives, turning the battle into a symbol of unmatched courage.
Directed by Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai, the film stars Akhtar alongside Raashii Khanna, Sparsh Walia, Vivan Bhatena, Dhanveer Singh, Digvijay Pratap, Sahib Verma, Ankit Siwach, Devendra Ahirwar, Ashutosh Shukla, Brijesh Karanwal, Atul Singh, Ajinkya Deo, and Eijaz Khan. Produced by Excel Entertainment’s Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, in collaboration with Amit Chandrra’s Trigger Happy Studios, the film brings together a deeply emotional war narrative with large-scale filmmaking.
The groundbreaking release is powered by PictureTime in partnership with GenSync Brat Media, who aim to bring theatrical experiences directly to soldiers and their families — especially in remote areas where entertainment access is limited. PictureTime founder-CEO Sushil Chaudhary revealed that only 30% of India’s nearly 20 million veterans and defense families currently have access to defense cinemas.
“We want to reach the underserved 70%, and 120 Bahadur is the perfect film to begin that journey,” he said.
Using its mobile cinema network, PictureTime will screen the film across remote military stations and border regions, ensuring the people it honors are the first to experience it.
Excel Entertainment CEO Vishal Ramchandani added, “120 Bahadur is a salute to the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces. It’s an honor that the very heroes we’re celebrating will be watching the film with their families.”
Ahead of its nationwide release, the makers will host paid previews on November 18, marking the 63rd anniversary of the Rezang La battle. The idea is to build early buzz while paying tribute to the 120 soldiers whose bravery inspired the film.
With its historic rollout, emotional storytelling, and powerful performances, 120 Bahadur is shaping up to be more than just a movie — it’s a cinematic tribute to India’s bravest.
