Who Was Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, PVC, the Hero of Rezang La Played by Farhan Akhtar in 120 Bahadur?

Born in Rajasthan in 1924, Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, PVC, was a soldier shaped by valour and service. After graduating, he joined the Jodhpur State Forces in 1949. When the princely state was integrated into the Indian Union, he was absorbed into the Kumaon Regiment—an infantry unit known for its grit and glory.

By 1955, he was promoted to Captain and went on to serve in several critical operations, including counter-insurgency in the Naga Hills and the 1961 Annexation of Goa. In June 1962, just months before the war, he became a Major.

Then came the Indo-China War of 1962.

One of its fiercest chapters unfolded at Rezang La in eastern Ladakh—at a chilling altitude of 5,000 metres (16,000 feet), where Charlie Company of the 13 Kumaon, made up largely of Ahir soldiers, held the line. Led by Major Shaitan Singh, 124 men faced an overwhelming Chinese offensive on the morning of November 18.

Outnumbered, outgunned, and without artillery support—thanks to the mountain terrain that blocked its use—these soldiers held their ground. Wave after wave of Chinese soldiers advanced using human-wave tactics. And wave after wave, the Kumaonis fought back with LMGs, mortars, rifles, and grenades.

Major Shaitan Singh moved between platoons under fire, reorganising defences, inspiring his men, and refusing to abandon the front lines. Even after being grievously wounded, he continued to lead.

As his men tried to evacuate him, Chinese fire intensified. Knowing their lives were at risk, Major Singh ordered them to leave him behind. They placed him behind a boulder—where he succumbed to his wounds.

Of the 124 soldiers of Charlie Company, 114 were martyred. Five were taken prisoner; one later died in captivity. Rezang La became a no-man's land post-ceasefire. Months later, a Ladakhi shepherd found their bodies still in position—rifles in hand, facing the enemy.

Major Shaitan Singh’s body, discovered behind the boulder where his men had left him, was flown to Jodhpur and cremated with full military honours.

For his unmatched courage, leadership, and supreme sacrifice, Major Shaitan Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime gallantry honour.

In the upcoming film, 120 Bahadur, Farhan Akhtar steps into the shoes of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, PVC, and attempts to bring to life the bravest battle of the Indo-China War of 1962. The film will release in theatres on November 21, 2025.