Delhi High Court Approves 120 Bahadur's Release Amidst Historical Controversy

On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court granted approval for the nationwide release of the film 120 Bahadur, featuring Farhan Akhtar, marking its theatrical debut set for November 21. This decision comes despite a petition questioning the film’s certification due to alleged inaccuracies in representing historical events from the 1962 Battle of Rezang La.

Justices Prathiba M. Singh and Shail Jain disposed of the petition, noting it was too late to alter the film’s title, release date, or make last-minute adjustments. They acknowledged the inclusion of soldiers' names at the film’s conclusion as a respectful tribute.

The courtroom allowed the film's release as planned across India, indicating that petitioners could view the film afterward to confirm the inclusion of all 120 soldiers' names.

In the event of necessary corrections, the court remarked that these would be permissible in the OTT version, specifically allowing for the correct names of the soldiers and their respective regiments—without any change to the film's title.

The suit was filed by Sanyukt Ahir Regiment Morcha, a charitable organization, together with trustees and relatives of soldiers who perished in the Rezang La conflict. The petition claimed that the film misrepresents historical facts by portraying Major Shaitan Singh as the solo hero under a fictional name, overshadowing the contributions of the predominantly Ahir (Yadav) company that fought in the battle.

Earlier, the case was scheduled for a different bench; however, as it did not convene, it was postponed. In light of the approaching release, petitioners sought an expedited review from another bench.

120 Bahadur narrates the story of Major Shaitan Singh, honored with the Param Vir Chakra for his leadership of the C Company from the 13 Kumaon Regiment during the tense Battle of Rezang La in 1962. This unit primarily comprised Ahir soldiers from Rewari and surrounding areas who bravely defended the Chushul sector.

According to the petitioners, the film undermines the contributions made by the 113 Ahir soldiers who fought alongside Major Shaitan Singh, affecting their collective identity and regimental pride.

Directed by Rajnees “Razy” Ghai, the film showcases Farhan Akhtar as Major Shaitan Singh. With the judicial endorsement, 120 Bahadur is set to premiere in cinemas on November 21 as planned.