Mumbai: The teaser of Salman Khan’s war drama ‘Battle of Galwan’, unveiled on December 27, drew criticism from a section of Chinese media, which accused the makers of distorting facts.
An expert in Global Times said that Bollywood films cannot rewrite history, they are only meant for entertainment.
The report stated that even Chinese netizens are disappointed with the teaser.
Reacting to the criticism, Chief Advisor of Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) Ashoke Pandit said China will react as the film exposes them.
“We are not surprised or shocked that the media in China has responded to Galwan film in such a way…If a filmmaker or production house decides to give depiction of confrontation of India and China, there is nothing wrong with it. I don’t think isse iski release par koi asar padega as far as release or collection is concerned,” said Pandit.
“It must have been in the minds of the producers that because it is Galwan, China would react because it is a film that is exposing them. We have the right to make a film like this on this subject and tell the world that this is what China has done to our country,” he added.
“China is a country that has supported Pakistan, have created a lot of issues and problems for our country. It’s a great thing that this film is made. If the film is good, it will do well,” he stated.
Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film is based on the book ‘India’s Most Fearless 3’ which revisits the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between the Indian and Chinese troops.
Chitrangda Singh plays the female lead opposite Salman.
Colonel Santosh Babu biopic?
Some movie buffs are speculating that the film is a biopic on Colonel Santosh Babu.
However, a source close to the film cleared the air stating that the film is based on the Galwan valley clash, and is not a biopic.
“Salman Khan’s Galwan is not a biopic on Colonel Santosh Babu. The film is based on the true events of the Galwan Valley clash. Known for conveying strong messages of humanity through his films, Salman Khan is expected to present a powerful human angle in the film’s climax,” the source was quoted as saying by HT.
Salman had earlier shared that the film was ‘physically challenging’.
“It is physically demanding. Every year, every month, every day it gets more and more difficult. I have to give more time now (for training). Earlier, I would do it (train) in one or two weeks; now I’m running, kicking, punching, and all that stuff. This film demands that,” the actor was quoted as saying by PTI.
The film is slated to be released in theatres on April 17, 2026.
