Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Declares War Film 120 Bahadur Tax-Free as Tribute to Rezang La Heroes

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta declared the war film 120 Bahadur completely tax-free in the national capital with immediate effect from November 28, describing the decision as a solemn tribute to the immortal valour of the 120 soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, who fought to the last man at Rezang La on November 18, 1962. In a deeply moving post on X, she saluted the supreme sacrifice made at 17,000 feet in minus-40-degree conditions, where Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, PVC (Posthumous), led his men in one of the most heroic and tragic last stands in world military history against an overwhelming Chinese assault.

The Chief Minister specifically highlighted how Major Shaitan Singh, despite being mortally wounded, continued to direct his troops until his last breath, inspiring every soldier to fight until ammunition and life ran out together. Outnumbered more than ten to one, the Ahir company from Haryana and Rajasthan annihilated over a thousand enemy soldiers before embracing martyrdom, their frozen bodies later found in firing positions with bayonets fixed. Gupta stated that granting tax-free status to a film that so faithfully recreates this chapter of unparalleled courage is the least the nation can do to keep their memory alive.

Produced under Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment banner and directed by Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai, 120 Bahadur has been lauded by defence analysts and serving officers for its meticulous attention to tactical detail, authentic weaponry, and refusal to indulge in jingoistic exaggeration. Farhan Akhtar underwent rigorous physical training and spent weeks with serving infantry units to portray Major Shaitan Singh with the gravity the role demanded. The film also features Raashii Khanna, Vivan Bhatena, Ankit Siwach, and a large ensemble of theatre actors from the National School of Drama to ensure realism in every frame.

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Despite glowing reviews and emotional endorsements from veterans, the film has recorded a modest ₹15 crore net in its opening week, underscoring the challenge of drawing audiences to serious war narratives without major box-office stars in conventional roles. The Delhi government’s tax waiver, following similar exemptions in several states governed by different political parties, is expected to significantly boost footfalls, especially among students and younger viewers who remain largely unaware of the Rezang La saga.

The announcement has also reinforced a rare moment of cross-partisan appreciation for the armed forces. Days earlier, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav watched the film in Lucknow and publicly praised its message, prompting Farhan Akhtar to express heartfelt gratitude. With Delhi’s decision now amplifying that sentiment from the national capital, 120 Bahadur is poised to transcend commercial metrics and become a lasting cinematic memorial to the forgotten 120 who redefined the meaning of duty, honour, and sacrifice on a frozen Himalayan ridge sixty-three years ago.

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