New Delhi: Superstar Salman Khan marked his 60th birthday on December 27 by unveiling the teaser for his next major film, ‘Battle of Galwan.’ The war drama, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, is based on the 2020 military confrontation between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley.

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on April 17, 2026. The teaser introduces Khan in the role of Colonel B. Santosh Babu, who led the Indian unit during the real-life clash. Set against stark, snow-covered landscapes, the teaser focuses on a tone of quiet resolve and restraint, avoiding conventional spectacle.

A Grounded Portrayal of Conflict

The makers have emphasised that the film is a grounded military account of the events in eastern Ladakh, where Indian soldiers defended their positions without firearms. This is reflected in the teaser, which shows soldiers armed with wooden batons, consistent with documented accounts of the engagement.

Moments of confrontation are punctuated by slogans like “Bajrang Bali Ki Jai,” “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” and “Birsa Munda Ki Jai,” rooting the narrative in a strong emotional and national context. The film is produced by Salman Khan Films and also features Chitrangada Singh in a prominent role.

Endurance Over Triumphalism

Salman Khan, last seen in ‘Sikandar,’ has described the project as one of the most physically demanding of his career, involving high-altitude shoots and extensive training. The film’s core theme appears to be endurance and duty over celebration, a sentiment captured by the teaser’s closing imagery of a wounded commander standing resolute before his troops.

The teaser concludes with a poignant line from Khan’s character, which encapsulates the film’s philosophical approach to conflict and sacrifice.

“Maut se kya darna, maut toh aani hai.”

With its focus on realism and a narrative of resilience, ‘Battle of Galwan’ is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2026.