Salman Khan Fans Urge Shelving of Maatrubhumi Amid Trailer Buzz
Salman Khan’s upcoming film Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace has found itself at the centre of an unexpected social media controversy ahead of its much-awaited trailer release. While fans were anticipating a major comeback from the Bollywood superstar, sections of his online fan community have reportedly expressed disappointment and urged the makers to reconsider releasing the film.
The controversy gained momentum following the release of the song teaser titled Teri Sexy Beauty. The promotional track, featuring Salman Khan and Chitrangda Singh, attracted criticism because of its lyrics and presentation. Several social media users questioned the suitability of a romantic dance number in a film inspired by the 2020 Galwan Valley military confrontation.
Some fans argued that a movie based on the sacrifices of Indian soldiers should maintain a serious and respectful promotional tone. Others questioned the creative decisions surrounding the project, suggesting that the makers were struggling to establish a consistent identity for a film that combines patriotism, military action and entertainment.
The criticism comes at a sensitive time for the production, which has already experienced multiple delays and a significant title change. Originally announced as Battle of Galwan, the film was subsequently renamed Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, reflecting the makers’ intention to explore the human consequences of war rather than present it exclusively as a military confrontation.
Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film features Salman Khan as Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment who lost his life during the June 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Chitrangda Singh plays the female lead, while Mukesh Rishi, Ankur Bhatia, Zeyn Shaw and Abhilash Chaudhary appear in important supporting roles.
The project also faced questions after authors Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh, associated with the original concept through their book India’s Most Fearless, announced that their association with the film had ended. They explained that the project had evolved beyond the account of the Galwan incident that initially brought them on board.
Salman Khan, however, has defended the film’s creative direction. At its promotional event on November 6, the actor dismissed speculation that government pressure had forced the makers to rewrite the screenplay. He clarified that the story was not intended to portray one country as inherently negative but focused on soldiers from both sides caught in a difficult situation.
The actor also attributed the repeated delays primarily to extensive visual-effects work and Chitrangda Singh’s injury, which affected the shooting schedule. He maintained that the production team wanted to ensure the film met audience expectations on the big screen.
Meanwhile, the makers have confirmed December 4, 2026, as the film’s theatrical release date. The trailer, which received considerable attention following an exclusive media preview in Mumbai, is scheduled for its public release on November 10.
Despite the criticism surrounding its promotional material, the film continues to generate discussion among Salman Khan fans and Bollywood audiences. Whether the trailer can restore confidence among disappointed supporters and establish the film’s intended emotional and patriotic identity remains an important question ahead of its theatrical release.
