Exactly 62 years ago, on November 18, 1962, the Battle of Rezang La took place, during which 114 unsung heroes sacrificed their lives to protect our country from Chinese forces. Today, Farhan Akhtar announced his upcoming movie, “120 Bahadur,” which honours these soldiers and tells their stories. In the film, Akhtar portrays Major Shaitan Singh, who led the 124 soldiers of ‘Charlie” Company during the Battle of Rezang La.
Farhan Akhtar announced his upcoming film, ‘120 Bahadur’ on Instagram with a post captioned, “It’s been 62 years since 1962. Today, we honor the unparalleled courage and sacrifice of the heroes of Rezang La. 120 Bahadur is our tribute to the valor and the indomitable spirit of Major Shaitan Singh and his brave men, who stood their ground against insurmountable odds. Their story echoes through time, reminding us of the price of freedom and the strength of unity, with a special salute to the Ahir community, whose sons displayed unmatched bravery in defending our nation.” Here are five facts about Major Shaitan Singh in honour of his bravery and courage:
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Major Shaitan Singh was born on December 1, 1924, in Banasar village, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, into a military family. His father, Lt Col Hem Singh Bhati, served in the Jodhpur Lancers during World War I and received the 'Order of the British Empire' for his bravery. Motivated by his father’s example, Major Shaitan Singh chose to follow a career in the Army. He later married Ms Shagun Kanwar, and they had a son, Narpat Singh, who now resides in Jodhpur.
Major Shaitan Singh completed his schooling at Rajput High School, Chopasani, and graduated from Jaswant College, Jodhpur. He began his military career with the Jodhpur Lancers (Horse Squadron) of the Jodhpur State Forces. Following the state's merger with India on April 7, 1949, he was transferred to the Kumaon Regiment. Known for his exceptional soldierly skills, he earned immense respect from both juniors and seniors alike.
On November 18, 1962, Major Shaitan Singh commanded 'C' Company of 13 Kumaon in the Battle of Rezang La, launching a fierce effort to retake Platoon 7's position. Despite being severely injured by machine gun fire, he continued to lead his troops, inspiring them with his courage and determination. Major Singh moved from one platoon post to another, boosting morale despite extreme weather, difficult terrain, and intense enemy fire. His company fought off seven waves of Chinese attacks, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. After the ceasefire, Major Singh and his men were found frozen behind a boulder, nearly three months later. For his bravery, leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty, he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, which is India’s highest wartime gallantry award.
Several memorials have been established to honour Major Shaitan Singh and the 114 soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice at Rezang La. The Rezang La War Memorial-Ahir Dham in Chushul, Ladakh, commemorates their bravery. Additional memorials are located in Rewari and Gurugram, Haryana, to honour Major Shaitan Singh and the martyrs of the Battle of Rezang La from the 13 Kumaon Regiment.
In 1985, the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCI) introduced a tanker named MT Major Shaitan Singh, PVC, in honour of him. The tanker served for 25 years before being retired.
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SOURCE: https://honourpoint.in/ & https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/
Image Credits: IMDB & Instagram/@faroutakhtar & https://honourpoint.in
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