The teaser for Salman Khan’s upcoming film Battle of Galwan has come under fire from various Chinese media outlets. Indian film industry leaders have expressed that this backlash was anticipated.
Released on December 27, the teaser features Salman Khan portraying a significant character related to the 2020 Galwan Valley skirmish between Indian and Chinese forces. Following its launch, the Chinese tabloid Global Times circulated viewpoints from experts who stated that Bollywood's cinematic takes are primarily for amusement and do not alter historical narratives. Additionally, it highlighted that numerous Chinese social media users expressed their displeasure with the teaser.
In response, Ashoke Pandit, Chief Advisor of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), noted that the backlash was not surprising. He remarked that any film addressing the India-China issue at Galwan would naturally provoke reactions from China.
Pandit affirmed that Indian filmmakers hold the right to narrate tales rooted in India's history and experiences. He maintained that producing a film centered on the Galwan conflict is entirely justified, asserting that such external criticisms won't hinder the film's release or its box office success. He suggested that producers likely anticipated this backlash, given the sensitive nature of the content pertaining to China.
Moreover, he stated that films like Battle of Galwan are crucial for portraying India’s perspective globally. Pandit highlighted that China has historically posed challenges to India and supported adversarial elements, making it essential for Indian cinema to openly present these narratives. He also mentioned that if the film resonates well with audiences and is executed competently, its performance will not be adversely affected by criticisms from abroad.
Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, Battle of Galwan is inspired by the book India’s Most Fearless 3. The film revisits the violent encounter in June 2020 in eastern Ladakh, where Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed under extreme conditions, utilizing sticks and stones as firearms were prohibited. The altercation resulted in the death of Indian Army officer Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu along with several others.
Salman Khan is set to portray a character inspired by Colonel Santosh Babu, with Chitrangda Singh also featured in the film. The narrative emphasizes courage, sacrifice, and the harsh circumstances soldiers endure at high-altitude borders.
The ongoing debate surrounding Battle of Galwan highlights its sensitive subject matter, and despite differing opinions, it has captured significant attention within India’s film sector. For many, the critical response from Chinese media underscores the relevance and potency of the topic, even years following the actual events.
