Full Breakdown
India’s Film Industry Rewrites Galwan Valley Stories Amid Diplomatic Thaw
5/28/2026, 12:56:57 AM
Government Directive Alters Galwan-Related Film Projects
Indian authorities have ordered filmmakers to avoid “China-bashing” in movies about the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Salman Khan’s war drama, originally titled *Battle of Galwan*, must be renamed *Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace* and reshoot about 40 % of its scenes. The separate project *The Lion of Galwan*, based on Vir Chakra awardee Sepoy Gurtej Singh, is on hold. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has not yet granted a No Objection Certificate, pending clearance from the Indian Army and the Ministry of Defence.
Background: Galwan Clash and Diplomatic Context
The June 2020 Galwan Valley confrontation in Ladakh killed 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese troops, inflaming a long-standing border dispute. After several rounds of talks, India and China signed a disengagement and patrolling agreement in October 2024, seeking to ease tensions while expanding trade and security cooperation.
Key Players
Salman Khan, the film’s star, faces title changes and reshoots. Producer Himalay Dassani, leading *The Lion of Galwan*, reports a Ministry of Defence directive prohibiting “China-bashing.” Political analyst Sanjay Kumar, retired professor Ira Bhaskar, filmmaker Onir, and retired Maj. Gen. G.D. Bakshi have publicly commented on the policy.
Official Statements & Responses
The Ministry of Defence issued a non-public order to prevent portrayals that could be seen as “China-bashing,” arguing the measure safeguards national interest and supports the broader diplomatic rapprochement. Retired Maj. Gen. G.D. Bakshi called the approach “rational” given current bilateral efforts and said Indian soldiers’ valor will be honoured on screen when timing permits.
Criticism & Opposition
Filmmakers and scholars argue the directive creates a selective environment for creative freedom. Ira Bhaskar noted that criticism of Pakistan faces fewer restrictions, while Onir questioned why anti-China narratives are barred but anti-Pakistan ones are tolerated. Aditi Sharma described the policy as “foreign policy by proxy,” saying cinema is being weaponized to serve diplomatic goals.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The issue is sensitive to the government and improving relationships with neighbours is always a good move, but at what cost needs to be figured out,” — Sanjay Kumar, political analyst
- “After we complete the script, we will have to submit it to the Ministry of Defence before we begin shooting. Also, we have received a directive from them that there cannot be China-bashing,” — Himalay Dassani, producer
- “With Pakistan, it is easy to do, but with China, it isn’t,” — Ira Bhaskar, retired professor of cinema studies
- “If China wants a thaw, why should India go around picking a fight?” — Maj. Gen. G.D. Bakshi (Ret.)
What’s Next
The Khan film remains pending CBFC approval, while *The Lion of Galwan* may resume if the script clears defence review. Observers expect future war-related movies to be timed with diplomatic cycles, potentially revisiting the Galwan narrative once Indo-China relations stabilize.
