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“120 Bahadur” is scheduled to release on November 21st. The petition filed by the United Ahir Regiment Front and several other petitioners claimed that the film’s title and presentation did not accurately reflect the reality of the Battle of Rezang La and the identities of the martyrs.
High Court rejects Farhan Akhtar's plea to rename "120 Bahadur"
Mumbai: Farhan Akhtar's upcoming war-themed film "120 Bahadur" is facing controversy even before its release. On Monday, the Punjab and Haryana High Court refused to hear a petition seeking a title change. The court bluntly asked, "Why so much sensitivity regarding the name when the film has already received official approval?"
Court rejects plea to stop the film's release
"120 Bahadur" is scheduled to release on November 21st. The petition filed by the United Ahir Regiment Front and several other petitioners claimed that the film's title and presentation did not accurately reflect the reality of the Battle of Rezang La and the identities of the martyrs.
The petition alleged that the film's trailer portrays Major Shaitan Singh as a lone hero, while 120 soldiers from C Company of the 13th Kumaon Regiment fought together. The petitioners argued that this harms history and collective identity.
Production House's Argument
Advocate Jai K. Bhardwaj, representing Farhan Akhtar's company, Excel Entertainment, argued that the trailer and the film's title have been in the public domain for two months, but the petitioners approached the court just before its release, which is an abuse of the judicial process.
Bhardwaj also pointed out that the film had received CBFC certification and approval from the Ministry of Defense's Preview Committee on November 7.
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The argument about the sentiments of the Ahir community also failed to hold water. The United Ahir Regiment Front argued that the film should be titled "120 Veer Ahir" to clearly recognize the Ahir community's contribution to the war.
The petition demanded that the names of all martyrs be included and the role of the Ahir Company be prominently displayed.
However, the court refused to accept these demands. The court clearly stated that the film was a creative expression that had already received the necessary government approvals. Consequently, there was no need for court intervention.
'Mentioning Caste and Community is Against Army Rules'
Advocate Bhardwaj also emphasized in his argument that according to Army rules, it is inappropriate to highlight a soldier's caste, community, or religion.
Therefore, the film has been titled "120 Bahadur," which represents the collective bravery of the soldiers. The disclaimer at the beginning of the film also pays tribute to the "brave soldiers," stating that the entire film is dedicated to the courage and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces.
Court's Strict Stance
The High Court ultimately stated that filing such a petition at the last minute, when the film has completed the official procedures and is nearing release, is a waste of the court's time.
The court dismissed the petition and categorically refused to obstruct the film's release.
