Farhan Akhtar on playing Major Shaitan Singh Bhati in 120 Bahadur: Would like to engage beyond base entertainment, I search for stories that can resonate with human beings

Farhan Akhtar on playing Major Shaitan Singh Bhati in 120 Bahadur: Would like to engage beyond base entertainment, I search for stories that can resonate with human beings

Farhan Akhtar is back on the big screen after a six-year hiatus, and he's doing it with a roar. At the teaser launch of 120 Bahadur, a film that pays tribute to the indomitable courage of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati (Param Vir Chakra), Farhan spoke passionately about what drew him to this remarkable war drama. Inspired by the heroic Battle of Rezang La in 1962, the film captures the heart-pounding bravery of 120 Indian soldiers who faced thousands in bone-chilling conditions — and never backed down.

The teaser, released today on social media, offers a gripping look into the film's intense emotional and patriotic core. Farhan, portraying Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, utters the line "Hum Peechhe Nahin Hatenge," a declaration that reverberates through the teaser — a line that encapsulates the soul of the story. His presence, steely resolve, and portrayal of valor set the tone for what promises to be a deeply moving cinematic experience.
At the launch event, Farhan reflected on the responsibility of bringing such a powerful and real-life story to the screen:

"I would like to ask you first that it's a huge sense of responsibility to even bring something like this to the big screen. And when you decided to do this, what was it like for you to step into the shoes of a man, even though in fiction, who really just defied courage? First, I would like to thank Mr. Narpat Singh, who is the son of Mr. Shaitan Singh. Without his blessings, without his trust, this story, this film wouldn't have been possible. So, thank you very much, Mr. Narpat Singh. I really liked this story, this film, because in our history, there are such heroes, such people, who teach us a lot.So, when Rezi came to me with this story, he said that... I just heard a name.
I remember when Lakshya was being shot, someone mentioned this name once or twice. But I had no idea what the story behind it was. And then we came back to Mumbai, and got busy with other things. So, when Rezi came, he told me that he wanted to make this film, and I heard the story. So, I got a feeling, which I will tell you the truth, in my life, before this, I got this feeling only once, when Rakesh came and talked to me about Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. So, that is the feeling I got when I heard the story from Rezi."

Farhan added, " I am 100% connected to this film. I want this film to be made. This story should reach people, not just Shaitan Singh's story, but the story of all the 120 soldiers who were with him. Because what he did there, it is unbelievable. You won't be able to believe it, when you see this story. So, I am happy, I am proud, that I am a part of this film. And with these very talented people, talented boys, there are many who are just starting their journey. So, I got a lot of energy from them too. So, it was a wonderful experience."

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More than just a comeback, 120 Bahadur represents Farhan’s commitment to telling stories that matter. His deep connection with narratives rooted in real-life inspiration is evident in how he approaches his choices:
"I would like to engage beyond just baseline, base entertainment, that is important to me. So I do search for stories that can resonate with human beings on a human level, you know, and inspire you or make you think about something different in your life or something that's going on that you're unaware of and maybe this will help you channelize your feelings and your thoughts. But that's really about it. And I mean, history is important, that makes us who we are. So whenever something does come along that can showcase history in a positive way, in a way that is not prejudiced or biased in any kind, can show it for what it is, I'm happy to."

For Farhan, storytelling goes beyond just entertainment — it's about meaning, impact, and reflection. He admits:
"I do believe, maybe I take films too seriously, you know, so I always want to try and give the audience something more than just, more than just entertainment, of course entertainment is important. It's a part of coming to a theatre and having a community experience of watching something. But to me, I feel that there has to be something more over and above that. So I, you can just call me fussy, I guess, for the lack of another word. I just wait for the right thing to come along and I couldn't have asked for anything better than this. So when you heard the story, you were like, okay, now I want to come back."

With 120 Bahadur, Farhan Akhtar steps into the boots of a national hero, bringing with him an earnestness and reverence that promises to honor not just Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, but every soldier who stood and fought beside him. The teaser offers just a glimpse — the full story, it seems, will be nothing short of unforgettable.