Salman Khan’s upcoming war drama with director Apoorva Lakhia has undergone a major rebrand, with the film officially retitled ‘Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace’. The project, previously known as ‘Battle of Galwan’, received its new name through an announcement from Salman Khan Films, which also released a fresh poster. 

Inspired by the deadly 2020 confrontation between Indian and Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley, the film shifts focus from a strictly historical account to a broader emotional narrative on conflict, sacrifice and the longing for peace.

A shift in tone and title

Those associated with the production say the new title reflects an intent to examine the moral and human dimensions of war rather than present a conventional recreation of the events. The film also derives its name from one of its songs, performed by Arijit Singh, which features Salman Khan and Chitrangda Singh in its video.

‘Maatrubhumi’ also carries the original teaser’s tagline: “May war rest is peace.” The earlier logline, released when the teaser dropped on Salman Khan’s 60th birthday on 27 December 2025, remains unchanged, "At over 15,000 feet above sea level, in one of the harshest terrains,Courage was tested like never before. Battle of Galwan brings to life a defining chapter of Indian history, a conflict fought in conditions where restraint, resolve and sacrifice became the ultimate weapons. Are you ready to witness this tale of courage?"

Release date uncertain as delays continue

Originally slated to arrive in cinemas on 17 April, the film has been postponed multiple times. The makers earlier pushed the date to avoid a clash with the ‘Bhooth Bangla’ starring Akshay Kumar, shifting it to the Independence Day weekend.

Recent industry chatter suggests a fresh delay to mid-August, a move that could create a major box-office face-off with ‘Lahore 1947’ featuring Sunny Deol, set for 13 August 2026. However, the team behind Maatrubhumi has not confirmed any new release window.

The film is produced by Salma Khan, with Salman Khan presenting the project under his home banner. Music has been composed by Himesh Reshammiya.

Story and performances

In the film, Salman Khan plays Colonel Santosh Babu, the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, who led Indian troops during the confrontation while overseeing disengagement protocols at the border.

Alongside him, Chitrangda Singh plays the female lead, with actors Abhilash Chaudhary and Ankur Bhatia appearing in significant roles.

Earlier promotional material depicted Salman sporting a rugged, bloodied battle look, complete with a moustache and a determined expression.

Criticism from China

The film has already attracted backlash on Chinese social media. Users on Weibo have accused the teaser of misrepresenting battlefield events and asserting claims inconsistent with China’s stance on the Galwan region.

State-owned outlets have also criticised the project, alleging it promotes Indian nationalism and misstates facts about the 2020 clash. Indian government sources have dismissed these objections.

MEA clarifies its position

Reports earlier suggested the Ministry of External Affairs had concerns over the film. However, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified in January that filmmaking matters fall outside the ministry’s remit.

“We understand that a film of this nature is being planned. Issues regarding film-making in India, as you are well aware, are looked after by the relevant authorities. And as far as we are concerned, MEA has no role in this or such ventures,” he said.

About the battle

The 2020 Galwan clash left a deep imprint on relations between India and China. Following the incident, India enacted several economic measures, including the ban of over 200 Chinese apps such as TikTok, enhanced scrutiny of Chinese investments, and widespread public calls to boycott Chinese goods.