War films have always been a big part of Indian cinema. They’re not just stories on screen — they remind us of the country’s military history, from Kargil to the Indo-Pak wars. With 120 Bahadur now in theatres, audiences once again get to see that spirit of bravery, as the film brings alive the resilience of Charlie Company soldiers during the Battle of Rezang La. For actor Ankit Siwach, who plays an Indian soldier, this wasn’t just another role. It was an experience that changed him emotionally and spiritually. In an exclusive chat with News18 Showsha, Ankit opens up about preparing for the part, working with Farhan Akhtar, dealing with pre-release controversies, and more. How did you prepare for your role and what was it like working with Farhan Akhtar?
The preparations began the moment I got the audition. At that point, I had no idea the film was being made by Excel or that Farhan sir was involved, I was simply told to prepare three scenes for an army-based project. Once I was shortlisted and finalised, all of us—the Charlie boys started training together. We went through nearly three months of physical preparation, team-building exercises, action training, as well as diction workshops. This routine continued for about three to four months before we actually began shooting. On a personal level, I also drew from real-life reference points since I’ve seen army officers up close. Additionally, getting the chance to work with Farhan sir was incredibly special, the kind of actor and filmmaker he is and beyond that, the kind of human being he is- I truly look up to him.
Did any part of playing a soldier stay with you after the film?
Absolutely! There were many intense scenes like the ‘Shahadat’ scene when you realize we are performing in a safe space, but these people went through this for real in 1962. Getting to play a real-life character and living their story for six months and then letting that person go is a full circle moment that stayed with me for a very long time.
Even when I came back to Mumbai, it took me around a week or two to be okay and to come out of the house, I feel I left a part of me in Ladakh and that has changed something in me.
Has there been an unexpected audience reaction that you’ve come to cherish?
We always knew the film was going to be special because it is very honest. One moment that stayed with me was when I was invited to my hometown, Meerut – and some of my school seniors held a special screening for me along with my teachers who taught me 18 or 19 years ago. It was a full house but what moved me was meeting people I grew up with – my teachers, my old friends and watching the film with them in my hometown.
The film faced some controversy around its title before its release. What is your take on that?
Before the teaser and trailer, I understood that a particular community had doubts about whether their sacrifice was being justified, as back then they had no clue about what the film would show. But once the trailer came out and now that the film is out, everything has mellowed down, and people have realized that everything has been taken care of with due respect. The audience now know that it is thoroughly researched, and we have honored the bravehearts of the Battle of Rezang La. with the utmost respect. Also, I believe a soldier dying is a soldier dying for the country, and the Ahir soldiers and Major Shaitan Singh Bharti ji have been portrayed beautifully.
You have also shared that the role felt spiritual to you. What made it feel that way?
Shooting at three or four in the night in Ladakh in minus five or minus six degrees, in absolute silence and darkness, only stars and the moon, and imagining that real soldiers sat there and defended the country is something that resonates with you beyond acting. But specifically, the death scene has stayed with me -when you are surrounded by Chinese soldiers in the scene, you know the gunfire will not hurt you, but you also know you are performing a moment where someone is dying for the country with no selfish reason, being so selfless and involved in that moment connects you to the universe.
You’ve previously shared that you enjoy watching Bigg Boss, are you following this season. Will we see you in a reality show soon?
No, not this season. I’ve watched six or seven seasons in the past, but not this time—though I do catch some clips and reels here and there.
As for participating in a reality show myself, I have thought about it, but I don’t think I’m mentally prepared for that right now. At this point, I feel I’m better suited to roles where I’m reading from a script.
/images/ppid_a911dc6a-image-176534962423595438.webp)
