Salman Khan clears air on Maatrubhumi script rumors and release delays

Actor Salman Khan addressed rumors surrounding his upcoming war drama Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace at its trailer launch event in Mumbai on Friday, clarifying that the movie is not anti-China and faced no government pressure for script changes. Based on the 2020-2021 China-India skirmishes, the film was previously titled Battle of Galwan Valley before getting its current title from a song in the movie.

Script and Censor Board

Addressing speculation that the narrative would harm international relations, Salman stated that the film focuses on soldiers and their families on both sides rather than portraying negative forces, emphasizing that only the situations are negative. He also confirmed that the Central Board of Film Certification and various ministries cleared the film without any cuts.

Release Delays

Production began in 2025 under director Apoorva Lakhia and producer Salman Khan Films, but the release faced multiple schedule shifts from initial plans for January or June to August, then November 20, and finally December 4. Salman explained that extensive visual effects work caused the primary delay as the team wants to avoid any flaws on the big screen. A secondary factor was an injury sustained by leading lady Chitrangda Singh, which required a lengthy physiotherapy and shooting break.

Context

Major commercial films dealing with sensitive geopolitical themes often face public speculation regarding government oversight and international sensitivities before release. Filmmakers frequently address these rumors during promotional events to manage audience expectations and clarify the creative scope of their work.