Salman Khan’s upcoming film Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace has come under fresh scrutiny following claims by YouTuber and political commentator Dhruv Rathee that parts of the film were reshot due to political pressure. Rathee alleged that the changes were intended to present China in a more favourable light, sparking discussions on social media about creative freedom and the portrayal of sensitive geopolitical issues in Indian cinema.
The allegations have brought renewed attention to the film’s production process, which has reportedly involved changes to its title, storyline and release plans.
Dhruv Rathee’s Claims About Salman Khan’s Film
Speaking at a press conference in Delhi on October 11, 2026, Rathee claimed that the government was reluctant to permit the release of the film in its original form because its content reportedly included criticism of China.
“Ek film aa rahi thi Salman Khan ki, jismein China ke khilaaf kuch cheezein thi. Aur sarkaar ki itni himmat nahi ho rahi ki us film ko release hone de,” Rathee said, suggesting that the government was unwilling to allow the film to be released with its original portrayal.
He further alleged that the makers were instructed to reshoot the film and modify its presentation to make it more favourable towards China.
According to Rathee, the changes involved making the film less critical of the neighbouring country. A video clip of his comments circulated widely on social media, prompting reactions from viewers and Salman Khan’s fans.
However, these statements represent Rathee’s allegations about the film’s production and the reasons behind the reported changes.
What Is ‘Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace’ About?
The film, initially announced under the title Battle of Galwan, is loosely based on an account from Shiv Aroor’s 2022 non-fiction book India’s Most Fearless. The book recounts the 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley.
Salman Khan plays the lead role of an Indian Army officer inspired by Colonel B. Santosh Babu, who was involved in the confrontation. Actress Chitrangada Singh also features in the film.
Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the project is produced by Salman Khan under his production banner, Salman Khan Films.
The film’s development has reportedly faced several challenges, including a title change and multiple postponements. The Ministry of Defence is also reported to have raised concerns about the original content, particularly the way China was portrayed.
Reshoots, Revised Storyline and Release Plans
Reports indicate that the film underwent changes as its production progressed. In September 2026, the revised version of Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace reportedly received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The film’s climax and the development of Salman Khan’s character were also reportedly revised to strengthen the theme of peace and bring the narrative in line with its changed tone.
The project is currently awaiting approval from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Salman Khan is reportedly considering November 13, 2026, as the theatrical release date, although the schedule remains tentative until the certification process is completed.
Rathee’s allegations have once again placed the film in the spotlight, raising questions about how cinematic portrayals of politically sensitive events may be affected by external considerations. The claims have also renewed discussion about the challenges filmmakers can face when adapting real-life military confrontations for the big screen.