After a lukewarm response to his last release, Sikandar, Salman Khan is set to make a powerful comeback, this time in a patriotic action drama that pays tribute to a national hero. The superstar has joined hands with director Apoorva Lakhia for a film inspired by the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, where Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu laid down his life fighting Chinese troops in one of the most defining moments of modern Indian military history.
The yet-to-be-titled film will see Salman Khan portraying Col. Santosh Babu, who commanded the 16 Bihar Regiment and displayed exceptional valour during the deadly skirmish. The film, backed by an emotional real-life narrative, is slated for release in the first half of 2026.
A Story Rooted in National Valour
The Galwan Valley clash on June 15, 2020, shocked the nation when news broke that Indian and Chinese troops had engaged in brutal hand-to-hand combat in the harsh terrain of Ladakh. The confrontation resulted in the martyrdom of 20 Indian soldiers, including Col. Santosh Babu.
His courage and leadership during the standoff, despite being vastly outnumbered, have been chronicled in the best-selling book India’s Most Fearless 3 by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh. The upcoming film will closely follow these real events, portraying the challenges, strategy, and sacrifice that unfolded in those fateful hours.
Salman Khan Steps into the Role of a National Hero
Salman Khan now takes on one of the most emotionally grounded and patriotic roles of his career. Playing Colonel Santosh Babu, the actor is expected to bring both physical prowess and emotional depth to a character that symbolises duty, honour, and sacrifice.
“This is not just a film, it’s a salute to real heroes. Colonel Santosh Babu’s story moved me deeply,” Salman reportedly shared with a close source.
Direction and Writing
Director Apoorva Lakhia, known for his action-packed thrillers like Shootout at Lokhandwala and Mission Istanbul, is expected to bring a raw, grounded tone to the project. The screenplay has been penned by Suresh Nair, in collaboration with Chintan Gandhi and Chintan Shah, who have delved deep into military protocols, tactical operations, and first-hand accounts to ensure authenticity.
The script is being developed in close consultation with defence experts and has reportedly received positive feedback from members of Col. Babu’s regiment and family.
For the film’s 70-day shoot, they will film major portions in Ladakh, closely resembling the Galwan Valley, and other portions in urban Mumbai, where they will portray the colonel’s personal life, family, and military training. Advanced planning is underway for high-altitude shooting, with specialised equipment and safety protocols being arranged.
The team aims to replicate the intense atmosphere of the Galwan conflict while also exploring the human side of soldiers and their families.
Final Word: Cinema Meets Sacrifice
In a time where patriotic cinema continues to strike a chord with audiences, this upcoming film could mark a new chapter in Salman Khan’s career, moving beyond his action-hero image into more meaningful, character-driven storytelling. With Colonel Santosh Babu’s bravery at the heart of the narrative, the film promises to be an emotional and cinematic tribute to a man who gave his all for the country.
