Ahead of 120 Bahadur, a look at Bollywood films that brought real military missions to the screen! 120 : Bollywood News

Bollywood Movies

Ahead of 120 Bahadur, a look at Bollywood films that brought real military missions to the screen! 120 : Bollywood News

Rotham November 17, 2025 0 Comments

With Farhan Akhtar’s 120 Bahadur set for release, audiences are revisiting Bollywood’s proud legacy of films inspired by the real-life bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. Here’s a curated feature on iconic movies that have brought true military missions and legendary heroes to the big screen, giving us heart-racing drama and heartfelt tributes.

Ahead of 120 Bahadur, a look at Bollywood films that brought real military missions to the screen!

Border (1997)

J.P. Dutta’s landmark war epic dramatizes the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, capturing the courage of soldiers who fought against overwhelming odds.

LOC: Kargil (2003)

Another J.P. Dutta-directed ensemble, this film chronicles the 1999 Kargil War, spotlights multiple battalions, and offers a panoramic view of battlefield heroism.

Lakshya (2004)

Directed by Farhan Akhtar, this coming-of-age drama is set amidst the Kargil War, tracing one man’s journey from drift to duty and patriotism.

Tango Charlie (2005)

Starring Bobby Deol and Ajay Devgn, the film explores the lives of soldiers deployed in counter-insurgency operations, showing both action and emotional challenges.

1971 (2007)

Amrit Sagar’s gripping story of Indian POWs captured after the 1971 war, highlighting the courage of those who yearned for freedom against daunting odds.

The Ghazi Attack (2017)

Inspired by the sinking of Pakistan’s submarine PNS Ghazi during the 1971 war, this underwater thriller celebrates the Indian Navy’s daring.

Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)

Vicky Kaushal leads this action-packed retelling of the 2016 surgical strikes in response to the terrorist attack in Uri, J&K—the film is famous for its “How’s the Josh?” call.

Shershaah (2021)

A biopic of PVC awardee Captain Vikram Batra, whose ultimate sacrifice helped India win the Kargil War. Sidharth Malhotra’s performance and the film’s realism earned wide accolades.

Sam Bahadur (2023)

A Meghna Gulzar biopic centered on Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, India’s legendary military leader, and his defining triumphs, including the victory in the Indo-Pak War of 1971.

Paltan (2018)

J.P. Dutta’s film on the 1967 Nathu La clashes along the Sikkim border, featuring an ensemble cast and highlighting military camaraderie.

State of Siege: Temple Attack (2021)

Inspired by the 2002 Akshardham Temple attack in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the film focuses on the National Security Guard’s daring 14-hour counter-terror operation. It was first released on ZEE5 as State of Siege: Temple Attack, and later received a theatrical release in 2025 under the title Akshardham Operation Vajra Shakti.

From historic battles to modern missions, these films salute the Indian Army’s unwavering courage. With 120 Bahadur soon joining this lineup, Indian cinema continues to honor its real-life warriors and keep their stories alive for viewers across generations.

Also Read: Punjab and Haryana HC declines PIL seeking name change for 120 Bahadur