Mumbai: Actor Hrithik Roshan has publicly lauded his longtime friend and collaborator Farhan Akhtar for his upcoming war drama 120 Bahadur, sending love and appreciation to the entire film team. The heartfelt message comes as the film, which chronicles one of India’s most courageous military battles, gears up for its release on November 21, 2025.

A Celebration of Friendship and Professional Bond

Hrithik Roshan and Farhan Akhtar share a friendship and professional rapport that spans over two decades, beginning with their work on the 2004 war-drama Lakshya, directed by Farhan. Reflecting on that period, Hrithik said,

“I remember the vigor and toil that went into Lakshya, but the passion I see in 120 Bahadur promises something even bigger and better in every way.”

In his note, Hrithik also praised Farhan and co-producer Ritesh Sidhwani, describing them as “buoys” who continually push their creative limits. “Farhan & Ritesh… my buoys, pushing your limits and conquering new peaks is what I have watched you both relentlessly do for so many years now,” he wrote, highlighting the dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence that has characterised their collaborative journey.

Hrithik’s appreciation extends beyond just Farhan and Ritesh. He also sent his best wishes to the entire team, including the cast and director Razneesh, acknowledging the collective effort behind the film. The warm message underscores not only personal friendship but also the respect and admiration Hrithik has for Farhan’s commitment to storytelling and filmmaking.

Farhan responded enthusiastically to Hrithik’s post, saying,

“Hrithikkkkk … thank you; this means so much. Can’t wait for you to see the film… big, big hug, man.”

Several other members of Farhan’s inner circle, including actress Raashii Khanna, who stars in 120 Bahadur, and Farhan’s sister, filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, also reacted with support and heart emojis, amplifying the excitement surrounding the film.

A Film Rooted in Courage and Patriotism

120 Bahadur is a war drama that pays tribute to the 120 soldiers who valiantly fought at Rezang La during the 1962 Indo-China war. The film aims to portray not only the strategic and historical aspects of the battle but also the human spirit, courage, and patriotism that defined the soldiers’ sacrifice.

Produced by Excel Entertainment, the film has already garnered attention through its trailers and promotional material, generating a buzz among audiences for its intense storytelling and emotionally charged performances. The trailer highlights both the bravery of the soldiers and the larger narrative of national pride, with superstar Salman Khan publicly praising Farhan Akhtar’s performance in the lead role.

The film promises to be a visually and emotionally gripping cinematic experience, blending war sequences, personal stories of the soldiers, and the socio-political backdrop of the 1962 conflict. The narrative not only honors the memory of these soldiers but also serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and the resilience required to confront such challenges.

Hrithik and Farhan: A Longstanding Creative Partnership

The bond between Hrithik and Farhan extends beyond personal friendship into a professional collaboration that has shaped the trajectory of contemporary Hindi cinema. Hrithik made his first mark in a Farhan-directed project with Lakshya, a film that required physical transformation, rigorous training, and intense dedication to authentically depict a young officer in the Indian Army.

Their paths crossed again with Zoya Akhtar’s Luck By Chance, a film exploring the Indian film industry, and later with Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), a milestone in contemporary Bollywood for its nuanced storytelling, ensemble cast, and relatable characters. The 2011 film saw Hrithik, Farhan, Abhay Deol, Katrina Kaif, and Kalki Koechlin deliver performances that blended emotional depth with commercial appeal, setting a benchmark for multi-starrer films.

In each of these collaborations, Hrithik has observed Farhan’s relentless pursuit of innovation, storytelling, and authenticity, a quality that he now praises in the context of 120 Bahadur. Hrithik’s admiration underscores the continuity of trust and respect between actor and director, highlighting a partnership that has consistently pushed the boundaries of Hindi cinema.

Anticipation Builds for Release

With its scheduled release on November 21, 2025, 120 Bahadur is positioned as both a commercial and critically significant film. Audiences are eager to witness the heroism of Rezang La’s soldiers brought to life on screen, and Hrithik’s endorsement only adds to the anticipation. His public appreciation not only amplifies interest among his fan base but also lends credibility to Farhan’s project, given their shared history of successful collaborations.

Beyond the box office, the film is likely to stimulate conversations about historical representation, patriotic narratives, and the depiction of soldiers in Indian cinema. By focusing on the courage and determination of ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances, 120 Bahadur aligns with a growing trend of films that combine entertainment with educational and patriotic themes, appealing to a broad demographic of viewers.

Celebrating Creative Dedication

Hrithik Roshan’s message is as much a tribute to Farhan Akhtar as it is a recognition of the hard work, perseverance, and vision required to bring such a project to life. By acknowledging both Farhan and Ritesh Sidhwani, Hrithik highlights the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and shared ambition in filmmaking. His words, “something even bigger and better in every way,” capture the essence of a project that seeks to surpass prior achievements while remaining deeply rooted in storytelling and emotional resonance.

In the competitive landscape of Bollywood, where films often rely on spectacle or star power, 120 Bahadur represents a return to meaningful cinema, focusing on real-life heroism, historical authenticity, and the human experience behind acts of valor. Hrithik’s acknowledgment of the film’s significance underscores the growing appreciation for content-driven cinema, where narratives of courage and resilience are celebrated alongside cinematic excellence.

Conclusion

As November 21 approaches, excitement for 120 Bahadur continues to build, fueled by Hrithik Roshan’s endorsement, Farhan Akhtar’s commitment to the story, and the film’s compelling portrayal of historical events. The heartfelt support from industry peers, along with the narrative’s focus on heroism and sacrifice, positions 120 Bahadur as a landmark project in the war drama genre of Hindi cinema.

For audiences, the film promises an immersive journey into the bravery and determination of Rezang La’s soldiers, while also offering insight into the creative vision of filmmakers who continue to challenge themselves with each new project. Hrithik’s message serves as both a personal note of encouragement and a public testament to the power of friendship, collaboration, and dedication in the world of cinema.

In Hrithik Roshan’s words: the passion, the toil, and the relentless pursuit of excellence seen in 120 Bahadur signal “something bigger and better in every way”—an experience that audiences will eagerly look forward to come November 21.