The TV series was inspired by the 1935 film "Lives of the Bengal Lancers" starring Gary Cooper and Franchot Tone, and initially followed the story's cinematic classic.

Late 19th century India is the setting for the show, where two lieutenants, Michael Rhodes and William Storm, serve under the command of Colonel Standish in the 77th Bengal Lancers.
The TV series was inspired by the 1935 film "Lives of the Bengal Lancers" starring Gary Cooper and Franchot Tone, and initially followed the story's cinematic classic.