In a surprising move, Salman Khan on Monday announced that his much talked about film Battle of Galwan has been renamed to Maatrubhumi. Sharing a new poster with the tagline “May War Rest In Peace,” the actor hinted at a shift in tone. According to Hindustan Times, a new report now claims that the title change is part of a broader effort to make the film more balanced and less politically sensitive.
Why the title was changed
According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the film’s title was changed as part of efforts to tone down its anti-China elements and make the narrative more sensitive. “Salman Khan was advised in certain official and strategic quarters to not only rethink the title of the film, but also tone down the anti-China portions.
Taking that feedback seriously, Salman chose to align the film with the national mood and preserve the subject's broader sensitivity. As a result, the title was changed, and a substantial portion was reworked, with the conflict being fictionalised,” the source told to the portal.
Script changes and reshoots
The film, which was originally based on the 2020 Galwan conflict between Indian and Chinese forces, had already stirred controversy earlier this month. Chinese state-backed media, especially the Global Times, criticised it, claiming that it “distorts facts” and promotes anti-China sentiment.
The report further noted that the film has undergone major changes through reshoots and script revisions, giving it a more emotional and character-driven tone. According to Bollywood Hungama, “A significant part of the script has been rewritten to reshape the film into a more emotionally charged patriotic saga. The changes also came after inputs from relevant quarters, and the new version is said to explore a more intimate dynamic between Salman Khan and Chitrangda’s characters,” the source added.
About Maatrubhumi
Directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced by Salman’s banner, the film features him as an Indian Army Colonel. It aims to portray courage, sacrifice and resilience, while blending war drama with themes of love and family. Though initially slated for an April 10 release, reports suggest the film may now be pushed, with no official confirmation yet.
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The renaming of Maatrubhumi signals a clear shift in approach — from a direct war narrative to a more nuanced and emotionally driven story, reflecting both creative and strategic considerations.
