What Challenges Did the Director of Farhan Akhtar's ‘120 Bahadur’ Face?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Director's Vision: Razneesh Ghai aims for authenticity in war portrayal.
- Historical Significance: The film is based on the real Battle of Rezang La.
- Production Challenges: Shooting in extreme Himalayan conditions presented unique hurdles.
- Innovative Techniques: Use of snow specialists for realistic effects.
- Epic Scale: The film features a 35-minute finale, a first in Indian cinema.
Mumbai, Sep 11 (NationPress) The director of the anticipated war film ‘120 Bahadur’, Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai, has detailed the intricate logistics involved in bringing this cinematic project to fruition.
Set against the brutal backdrop of the Himalayan winter, the film portrays the tenacity, sacrifice, and remarkable valor of soldiers who stood firm in the face of overwhelming odds.
Discussing the film, the director stated, “The scale is truly monumental. Picture shooting at 14,000 feet above sea level with a team of 600, managing vast equipment, cranes, lighting trucks, weapons, and numerous extras, all in those severe conditions. We sometimes filmed at minus 8 degrees at night. It was phenomenal; despite the freezing temperatures, the productivity was astounding.”
He also elaborated on the thorough preparation and dedication that went into recreating this unforgettable historical moment.
Ghai emphasized that the story of 120 Indian soldiers confronting 3,000 Chinese troops in the Himalayas necessitated this grand scale. He remarked, “Being in Ladakh makes you feel insignificantly small, and no camera can fully capture what the naked eye perceives.”
Inspired by actual events, the film narrates the courageous tale of 120 Indian soldiers who held their ground during the 1962 Battle of Rezang La, which stands as one of history's most heroic last stands.
“The action, explosions, hand-to-hand combat, and battle sequences unfold on a grand scale. We filmed a finale that stretches nearly 35 minutes—an unprecedented feat in Indian cinema. Importantly, our battle is extremely realistic. I aim to create films that resonate with audiences, making them feel as if they are part of the war. We even enlisted snow experts from England, including veterans from Game of Thrones, to craft authentic snowstorms. The original battle occurred at 17,000 feet, in minus 24 degrees, amidst blizzards, so authenticity was paramount,” the director added.
The film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar of Excel Entertainment, along with Amit Chandrra of Trigger Happy Studios, featuring Farhan Akhtar in the lead role.
Scheduled for theatrical release on November 21, 2025.