Latest news with #CharlieCompany
India.com
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
What is Charlie Company which created history in 1962 war? Major Shaitan Singh being discussed after 65 years due to…
What is Charlie Company which created history in 1962 war? Major Shaitan Singh being discussed after 65 years due to… The story of that cold night of 18 November 1962 when the brave sons of Charlie Company reminded the enemies of India's strength on the snowy peaks of Rejang La in Ladakh. By Nivedita Dash Edited by Nivedita Dash Advertisement What is Charlie Company which created history in 1962 war?Major Shaitan Singh being discussed after 65 years due to... The story of a cold night of November 18, 1962 is being discussed a lot so that today's India knows what had happened that day. India has a difficult neighbour, China. It also fought a war with it in 1962. This war was a result of a border dispute, particularly in the Aksai Chin region and along the McMahon Line. The conflict lasted from October 20th to November 21st, 1962, ending with a Chinese ceasefire and withdrawal. What happened on November 18, 1962? Advertisement === On 18 November 1962, on the snowy peaks of Rejang La in Ladakh, Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, along with his 120 brave soldiers, fought a battle for the honor and pride of the country against the Chinese. Charlie Company of the 13 Kumaon Regiment created history by standing firm in front of 3,000 Chinese soldiers. Farhan Akhtar's film 120 Bahadur will be released on November 21 2025. Through this film, India will know the story of Major Shaitan's immortal sacrifice. Who was Major Shaitan Singh? Advertisement === Major Shaitan Singh, born in Jodhpur, Rajasthan in 1924, was the true hero of Charlie Company. When the Chinese army attacked, he kept his soldiers united. Despite being injured many times, he kept moving from bunker to bunker and inspiring the soldiers. Fighting till his last breath, he protected the motherland. For his indomitable courage, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra. Why is Major Shaitan Singh in the news in 2025? Farhan Akhtar's 120 Bahadur is making a film on this immortal story of Major Shaitan and Charlie Company. This saga of Charlie Company and Major Shaitan Singh is not just a story of a war, but the spirit of sacrificing one's life for the country. 120 Bahadur will remind every Indian of their sacrifice.
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First Post
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- First Post
Farhan Akhtar's 120 Bahadur: What was Charlie Company? The unit behind Rezang La that made history in 1962
In November 1962, 120 soldiers from Charlie Company were stationed at this high-altitude post to defend the Chushul sector — a location of immense strategic importance read more Long before it became a symbol of unmatched courage, Rezang La stood as a remote, wind-swept mountain pass in the eastern sector of Ladakh, near the village of Chushul. Towering at nearly 18,000 feet above sea level, this icy terrain became the backdrop of one of the most legendary last stands in Indian military history. At the heart of that stand was Charlie Company of the 13 Kumaon Battalion. In November 1962, 120 soldiers from Charlie Company were stationed at this high-altitude post to defend the Chushul sector — a location of immense strategic importance. Braving freezing winds, unforgiving terrain, and mounting pressure, they stood firm in the face of an advancing enemy, determined to hold the line at all costs. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Commanded by Major Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC — a leader whose quiet strength inspired unflinching loyalty — the men of Charlie Company displayed unparalleled courage on the night of November 18, 1962. They pushed back successive attacks from their post at Rezang La. If the Chinese had taken control of Rezang La, it would have given them a tactical advantage to launch further attacks on the Chushul airfield — a critical military asset located just over an hour away. Though the battle came at a staggering cost, their valour left behind a story that continues to echo through military institutions and history books alike. Charlie Company became a symbol of sacrifice — a reminder of how a handful of brave hearts rewrote the narrative of an entire war. Now, their extraordinary story comes to life in 120 Bahadur, with Farhan Akhtar portraying Major Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC. Directed by Razneesh 'Razy' Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar (Excel Entertainment), and Amit Chandrra (Trigger Happy Studios), the film is an Excel Entertainment production.
India.com
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Farhan Akhtar Celebrates 21 Years Of Lakshya, Calls It A Story About Finding Purpose
Mumbai: Actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar took a moment to celebrate a major milestone as his directorial venture 'Lakshya' completed 21 years since its release. Marking the occasion on social media, Akhtar reflected on the film's enduring impact, calling it 'a story about finding purpose.' Released in 2004, the coming-of-age drama starring Hrithik Roshan continues to hold a special place in Indian cinema for its powerful narrative and inspiring message. On Wednesday, Farhan Akhtar took to his Instagram handle and shared a video compiling memorable moments from the film, captioning it: 'Celebrating 21 years of a story about finding purpose, one step at a time. #21YearsOfLakshya.' He also tagged the cast of the film in his post, acknowledging their contribution to the memorable journey of 'Lakshya.' Released in 2004, Lakshya—meaning "Aim"—was a powerful coming-of-age war drama that marked Farhan Akhtar's second directorial venture. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Farhan Akhtar (@faroutakhtar) Backed by producer Ritesh Sidhwani and written by veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, the film brought together an impressive cast including Hrithik Roshan, Preity Zinta, and Amitabh Bachchan. Inspired by conversations with Indian Army officers and veterans of the 1999 Kargil War, Javed Akhtar crafted a compelling narrative centered on Karan Shergill, a directionless young man from a privileged Delhi background. As the story unfolds, Karan transforms into a courageous soldier, finding both his identity and purpose on the battlefield. The film remains a celebrated portrayal of personal growth, national pride, and the spirit of the armed forces. Also starring Boman Irani, Om Puri, Lillete Dubey, Kushal Punjabi, Sharad Kapoor, Sushant Singh, and Parmeet Sethi, the film was released on 18 June 2004. Meanwhile, Farhan Akhtar is gearing up for the release of his upcoming action drama '120 Bahadur,' which pays tribute to Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, PVC, and the soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment. Set against the backdrop of the 1962 Indo-Sino War, the film draws inspiration from the legendary Battle of Rezang La, where acts of unparalleled bravery and sacrifice etched their place in history. '120 Bahadur' is slated to hit theatres on November 21, 2025.
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First Post
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- First Post
Who was Maj Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC — The hero Farhan Akhtar essays in his next '120 Bahadur'?
Born in 1924 in Rajasthan, Maj Shaitan Singh PVC was the commanding officer of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment read more In 120 Bahadur, Farhan Akhtar brings to screen the inspiring story of Maj Shaitan Singh PVC — a national hero whose courage shaped one of the most legendary last stands in Indian military history during the 1962 India-China war. Born in 1924 in Rajasthan, Maj Shaitan Singh PVC was the commanding officer of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment. On 18th November 1962, at the snowbound heights of Rezang La in Ladakh, he and 119 soldiers stood their ground against an overwhelming Chinese assault. Their relentless resistance ensured the protection of the strategic Chushul airstrip — and etched their names into the annals of valour. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD For his unparalleled leadership and sacrifice, Maj Shaitan Singh PVC was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra — India's highest military honour. 120 Bahadur is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, and Amit Chandrra under Excel Entertainment and Trigger Happy Studios, and directed by Razneesh 'Razy' Ghai. The story and screenplay are by Rajiv G Menon, with dialogues by Sumit Arora, music by Amit Trivedi, and lyrics by Javed Akhtar. An Excel Entertainment production — 120 Bahadur hits cinemas on 21st November, 2025.
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First Post
17-06-2025
- Politics
- First Post
Merz, Trump and more: Why the world is loving military so much
Across continents and political ideologies, nations are embracing their militaries with unprecedented fervour from Germany's first-ever Veterans Day to Trump's parade politics and a global surge in defence spending read more First Lieutenant Zachary Buher and Staff Sergeant Cesar Lua, members of the U.S. Army's Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division operate a M1A2 SEP V3 tank during the Army's 250th Birthday parade in Washington, D.C., US., June 14, 2025. Reuters Across continents and political systems, a striking global shift is underway — a rising embrace of military power not just as a tool of defence, but as a central pillar of national identity and state legitimacy. From the celebratory tone of Germany's first-ever Veterans Day to Donald Trump's insistent revival of martial symbolism in the United States, governments are rekindling national pride through the lens of armed forces. This renewed affection for military institutions is not emerging in a vacuum. It's being shaped by active wars, changing geopolitics and a growing perception of external threat and internal instability. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Germany's U-Turn: Veterans Day and the 'Strongest Army in Europe' In a nation long haunted by its militaristic past, Germany's first national day for military veterans marked a cultural transformation. Germany's Defence Minister Boris Pistorius presided over commemorations held nationwide, referring to the day as a 'long-overdue signal of recognition' for the country's soldiers. This was more than just ceremony — it signalled Germany's shifting national narrative around its military. Sarah Brockmeier-Large from the Peace Research Institute in Frankfurt described the development as evidence of a new societal consensus: that a functioning democracy requires strong armed forces. Particularly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Bundeswehr's role began to be reimagined from a relic of a dangerous past to a guardian of European stability. The political momentum didn't stop at cultural shifts. With Friedrich Merz's rise to chancellorship, Germany began implementing policies to radically expand its defence capability. Merz declared his aim to build the 'strongest conventional army in Europe,' promising increases in troop strength, new military equipment and greater integration into Nato-wide planning. His pledge to raise defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP—higher than even US levels—was both a statement of autonomy and an answer to long-standing demands from Washington. Trump's parade and the politics of power projection Across the Atlantic, the symbolic revival of the military under President Trump took a more theatrical form. But Trump's 79th birthday parade was overshadowed by widespread protests against his use of power, yet the military spectacle itself remained central to his political messaging. Trump framed the parade as a necessary affirmation of American military greatness, vowing that enemies of the U.S. would meet 'total and complete defeat' at the hands of its soldiers. Though the event was mired in political tension and civil unrest, the intent was unmistakable. Trump was reaffirming the military as a source of national pride and authority. This narrative, even amid domestic chaos, has helped normalise the public celebration of armed might, making military symbolism a cornerstone of political legitimacy in the US once again. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Wars as catalysts: Ukraine, West Asia, Africa It would be simplistic to suggest these developments are purely domestic. Ongoing global conflicts have created an atmosphere where military readiness is not just relevant — it's existential. The war in Ukraine remains a critical driver, especially for Europe. Trump's unpredictability regarding Nato commitments has compelled European nations to spend more and prepare for scenarios without guaranteed US protection. In parallel, West Asia continues to convulse with violence. According to the Geneva Academy, more than 45 armed conflicts are active in the region, involving both state and non-state actors and drawing in foreign powers like Russia and the US. Africa, too, faces similar turmoil, with over 35 non-international armed conflicts in countries such as Ethiopia, Mali and Nigeria. These theatres of war have prompted an unprecedented increase in defence budgets. According to the Council of the European Union, the continent saw a 30 per cent rise in defence expenditure between 2021 and 2024, hitting €326 billion ($377 billion). Further investment is expected as part of the EU's Readiness 2030 plan, which includes €150 billion ($173.5 billion) in defence loans and substantial funding for joint procurement and research. Asia's response: From assertiveness to alarm While Europe re-arms, Asia grapples with its own powder kegs. China has continued to assert military pressure on Taiwan and the South China Sea region, prompting alarm in neighbouring countries and accelerating regional arms races. India, surrounded by two hostile neighbours — China and Pakistan — finds itself under strategic compulsion to boost its military preparedness. Operation Sindoor highlighted India's military necessities in a volatile neighbourhood. Pakistan is a 'military state' indistinguishable from the terrorist networks it harbours. India recently sent out multiple delegations across the globe to bust the Pakistani narrative of separation between state and non-state actors in the country. Pakistan watchers have said for long that the non-state actors in Pakistan have the patronage of its military establishment. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With Bangladesh showing increasing hostility and the global community largely silent, India has few options other than strengthening its own deterrence. The Indo-Pacific, in this regard, mirrors Europe's urgency. Nations are not just reacting to threats — they are preparing for scenarios where alliances may fail and self-defence becomes the only option. The blurred line between soldier and state Nowhere is the militarisation of state identity more pronounced than in regimes where the armed forces are the government. In Pakistan and North Korea, the military is not just an arm of the state but its ruling entity. Pakistani generals are said to not only guide national policy but are celebrated for military failures — an absurdity that reveals the deep entrenchment of the military in public life. This blurring of lines fosters authoritarianism. When the military becomes the symbol of unity and stability, democratic institutions and civilian oversight often erode. Trump's militarised political rhetoric, Germany's stance under Merz and China's aggression all suggest that even democratic nations are increasingly comfortable with ceding more political space to military logic and institutions. Industrial complex: Militarisation as economic strategy Behind the uniforms and parades lies a booming defence economy. The European defence industry, as reported by the Council of the European Union, saw a nearly 17 per cent increase in turnover in 2023, with over €158 billion ($182.7 billion) in revenue. Job creation has followed suit, with more than 580,000 employed across military aeronautics, naval and land sectors. This investment is not just about security — it's about industrial strategy. A stronger defence industry is seen as a route to greater economic independence and technological superiority. With small and medium enterprises deeply embedded in the supply chain, militarisation has become an engine of economic growth and political capital. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A new global normal? States are no longer relying solely on diplomacy or multilateral institutions to ensure peace. Instead, they are returning — some proudly, others cautiously — to the old logic of strength through force. From Berlin to Washington, Paris to New Delhi, the love for the military is not just emotional. It is strategic, economic, and, in many cases, political. Whether born out of necessity, nostalgia or national insecurity, this global wave of militarism is not a blip. It is a symptom of a world bracing for conflict.
