The “Tiger” of Bollywood has marked a milestone birthday with a gift of epic proportions for his global fanbase. On the occasion of his 60th birthday today, December 27, 2025, superstar Salman Khan and Salman Khan Films (SKF) officially unveiled the first teaser for their upcoming war drama, Battle of Galwan.
Directed by the master of gritty action, Apoorva Lakhia, the film serves as a cinematic tribute to the extraordinary bravery and ultimate sacrifice of Indian soldiers. The teaser provides a heart-pounding glimpse into the events of the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, where Indian and Chinese troops engaged in one of the most significant border confrontations in decades.
In a career-defining move, Salman Khan sheds his typical “masala” persona to step into the boots of a real-life national hero. He portrays Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu (Mahavir Chakra), the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment.
Colonel Babu famously led his men from the front during the clash in Eastern Ladakh. The teaser highlights Salman’s intense transformation, capturing the resolve and tactical brilliance of the officer who was posthumously awarded the Mahavir Chakra, India’s second-highest military decoration.
“This film is not just a story; it is a salute,” a representative from Salman Khan Films stated. “Portraying Colonel Santosh Babu is a responsibility Salman took very seriously. He wanted to ensure every detail, from the regiment’s ethos to the grit of hand-to-hand combat, felt authentic.”
The choice of Apoorva Lakhia as director has sparked immense excitement among cinephiles. Known for his realistic and intense directorial style in films like Shootout at Lokhandwala and Haseena Parkar, Lakhia brings a documentary-style urgency to the Battle of Galwan.
The teaser showcases Lakhia’s vision of the treacherous Himalayan terrain. With freezing temperatures and steep cliffs, the production team reportedly utilized advanced technology and specialized sets to replicate the high-altitude environment. The “hand-to-hand” combat sequences, a hallmark of the actual Galwan conflict, are glimpsed in the teaser as raw, brutal, and emotionally charged.
Adding a layer of emotional depth to the high-octane war drama is the casting of Chitrangada Singh. While her specific character details remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest she plays a pivotal role, possibly reflecting the perspectives of the families who wait for their heroes to return.
The chemistry between Salman and Chitrangada, paired with an expansive supporting cast portraying the soldiers of the 1 बिहार (1 Bihar) and 16 बिहार (16 Bihar) regiments, promises a narrative that balances battlefield bravery with the personal stakes of modern warfare.
The film ventures deep into the events of June 2020. By focusing on the 16 Bihar Regiment, Battle of Galwan aims to educate the younger generation on the geopolitical significance of the “Line of Actual Control” (LAC).
Makers have worked closely with military consultants to ensure the portrayal of the Indian Army’s protocols and the specific nature of the conflict—which took place without the use of firearms—remains historically respectful and accurate.
To maximize the film’s patriotic appeal, the makers have locked April 17, 2026, for the worldwide theatrical release. This date aligns with a major holiday weekend, providing a perfect platform for a massive opening.
Trade analysts expect Battle of Galwan to be a significant player in the 2026 box office race. Given Salman Khan’s immense pull and the nationalistic sentiment associated with the Galwan story, the film is poised to challenge the records currently held by other major war epics.
