Vivan Bhathena Says Farhan Akhtar Described Ladakh as ‘Beautiful Hell’ While Filming 120 Bahadur
Image via Ians
Mumbai, Nov 21 (thetrendingpeople): Actor Vivan Bhathena, who stars in the newly released war film ‘120 Bahadur’, has opened up about his intense shooting experience in Ladakh. During a conversation with IANS, the actor revealed that it was co-star and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar who perfectly captured the essence of Ladakh when the cast first arrived.
Describing Farhan’s words, Vivan said,
“Farhan told us, ‘This place changes you. It reminds you of how small and insignificant you are in the scope of things.’ And it's true. Ladakh really makes you feel small. It’s a beautiful hell — stunning to look at but deadly if you make a wrong move.”
Vivan added that the dramatic terrain, with its harsh winds, storms, sand and barren stretches, constantly reminded the team of the life-threatening conditions soldiers endure every day.
A Test of Endurance in Extreme Terrain
The actor praised the incredible resilience of the Indian Army soldiers stationed in such isolated and unforgiving regions.
“Our soldiers hold the fort in places where everything works against you. For us, shooting there was a challenge — but for them, it’s daily life,” he said.
Vivan recalled how physically demanding the shoot was. When the team arrived, they struggled to walk even 400 metres without stopping for water due to the low oxygen levels. But with rigorous training, their bodies gradually adapted.
“By the end of two months, we were walking eight kilometres every night. We trained so we could build the stamina needed for the battle sequences,” he shared.
The harsh weather and altitude forced the actors to push themselves beyond their physical limits.
“We walked at maximum pace, breathed harder to take in more oxygen. Our breathing changed, our strength changed, our endurance changed. Ladakh teaches you that if you work hard enough, you can prevail,” Vivan added.
‘120 Bahadur’ showcases the courage and sacrifice of soldiers defending India’s remote borders — a theme that resonates deeply with the cast after their firsthand experience of Ladakh’s extreme environment.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Vivan Bhathena’s reflections on Ladakh not only highlight the physical challenges behind 120 Bahadur but also offer a rare glimpse into the emotional weight carried by soldiers posted in the region. Farhan Akhtar’s description of Ladakh as a “beautiful hell” captures the paradox of its breathtaking beauty and unforgiving climate. The actors’ intense training and transformation underscore the film’s authenticity and commitment to realism. As audiences continue to respond to the film’s raw portrayal of endurance and patriotism, 120 Bahadur stands as a reminder of the resilience required — both onscreen and in the lives of those who guard the nation’s highest borders.