India’s film exhibition landscape has witnessed a landmark development with Excel Entertainment and Trigger Happy Studios’ upcoming war drama 120 Bahadur becoming the first film ever to secure a nationwide release across defence theatres. The initiative, powered by PictureTime’s mobile cinema network, ensures that the film—crafted as a tribute to extraordinary bravery—reaches the soldiers it celebrates.
A historic rollout across defence theatres
The Farhan Akhtar-led film is set for exclusive screenings for the defence community in more than 800 cinema halls across India when it releases globally on November 21. This unprecedented rollout has been facilitated by PictureTime in collaboration with GenSync Brat Media, marking a significant stride in improving entertainment accessibility for armed forces personnel stationed in both accessible and remote locations.
Through this model, the makers aim to bridge long-standing gaps in cinematic access, especially for soldiers posted in tough terrains where conventional theatre infrastructure does not exist. The nationwide release across defence cinemas is being positioned as the largest and most inclusive outreach of its kind.
Addressing long-standing gaps in access
Sushil Chaudhary, Founder–CEO of PictureTime, elaborated on the magnitude of the initiative. He stated that while India has nearly 1.5 million active soldiers and over six million potential defence viewers, access to defence cinemas remains limited. “Only 30 per cent of India’s 20-million-strong veteran and family audience has access to defence cinemas. We aim to expand the ecosystem to additionally reach the underserved 70 per cent, and we begin with a bang with 120 Bahadur, a film we know will deeply resonate with the forces,” Chaudhary said.
His comments underline the need for entertainment equity among defence communities, many of whom are stationed in regions where regular theatre screenings are not feasible. PictureTime’s mobile cinema solutions have sought to fill this gap, and 120 Bahadur marks their most ambitious outing to date.
A sentimental release for the makers
Excel Entertainment CEO Vishal Ramchandani emphasised the emotional resonance of the film’s defence-first release. “120 Bahadur honours the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces. We feel truly privileged that the soldiers whose spirit the film celebrates will be watching it with their families. Our sincere thanks to PictureTime for facilitating this screening for those who serve the nation,” he said.
The film’s team has consistently highlighted that the narrative—based on true events—was created with deep respect for the Indian armed forces. Bringing the film first to soldiers and their families is, they say, a gesture of gratitude.
Inspired by the Battle of Rezang La
120 Bahadur is inspired by the valiant Battle of Rezang La, a defining moment of courage in Indian military history. The cast features Raashii Khanna, Sparsh Walia, Vivan Bhatena, Dhanveer Singh, Digvijay Pratap, Sahib Verma, Ankit Siwach, Devendra Ahirwar, Ashutosh Shukla, Brijesh Karanwal and Atul Singh. Senior officers Ajinkya Deo and Eijaz Khan also play pivotal roles.
The ensemble brings together actors from diverse backgrounds to portray the extraordinary story of unshakeable bravery displayed in extreme conditions. The film is directed by Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar and Amit Chandrra.
A major moment ahead of release
The achievement comes ahead of the film’s theatrical release on November 21, 2025. With exclusive defence screenings and a broader nationwide release, 120 Bahadur is being positioned as one of the most significant war epics in recent Indian cinema. Its unique rollout strategy further sets it apart, ensuring that the first audiences to watch the film are the very soldiers whose sacrifices the story honours.
Conclusion
The historic defence-theatre release of 120 Bahadur not only marks a milestone in Indian cinema distribution but also underscores the industry’s evolving commitment to inclusivity and outreach. By ensuring that soldiers and their families across the country access the film simultaneously, the makers have delivered a gesture of respect that complements the film’s patriotic spirit. With its release just days away, expectations around the war epic continue to build.