Salman Khan's Maatrubhumi stuck over censor clearance, China angle in contention

Contrary to online speculation of an upcoming censor board screening, Salman Khan's war drama Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace has not yet been submitted to the CBFC. The film remains in limbo as the producers continue to resolve pending official concerns over its sensitive China backdrop.

In Short

• Salman Khan's Maatrubhumi is yet to be cleared for release
• A source said unresolved issues linked to China continue delaying progress
• The makers are speaking with government officials to resolve pending concerns

Contrary to reports circulating online, actor Salman Khan’s Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace has not yet been submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and remains stalled over its narrative stance on China.

Social media posts had recently claimed that the war drama was scheduled for a censor board screening next week, sparking speculation about an imminent theatrical release. However, a Bollywood Hungama report mentioned that no such screening has been scheduled and that the film's status remains unchanged due to its geopolitical backdrop.

The film, originally announced as Battle Of Galwan, is based on the 2020 military clash between India and China. With diplomatic relations between the two nations seeing recent improvements, the Ministry of Defence reportedly expressed reservations regarding specific content in the film. Reports earlier this year indicated that references to 'China' might be excised entirely to secure official clearance.

Speaking on the current impasse, Bollywood Hungama, while attributing a source, claimed that the producers are actively engaging with government officials to reach a consensus. The insider noted that while the makers hope to secure clearances for a 2026 theatrical release, any delay in resolving the objections could push the film's premiere to 2027.

For now, the project remains in limbo. The production team continues to consult with relevant authorities, and formal submission to the CBFC will proceed only after the underlying geopolitical concerns are addressed.

The film, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, features Salman Khan in the role of Col Santosh Babu, with Chitrangada Singh also in a key role. Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace also features actors Mukesh Rishi, Ankur Bhatia, Abhilash Chaudhary, Abhishree Sen, Zeyn Shaw, Javed Khan and Vipin Bhardwaj in crucial roles.

Meanwhile, Salman was recently seen in a cameo in the Arabic film, 7 Dogs, featuring actor Sanjay Dutt.

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