What is the story about?
Salman Khan’s Battle Of Galwan honors the brave soldiers who participated in the Indo-Sino conflict of 2020. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film's first
song, named Maatrubhumi, debuted today on various digital platforms. The track features Salman alongside Chitrangda Singh, who portrays his spouse. This tribute to the nation was released at an opportune moment as India commemorates Republic Day on Monday. Salman’s role in Battle Of Galwan draws inspiration from Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC, who was killed in action while serving as the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment during the confrontation on June 15, 2020.
Who inspired Salman Khan's character in Battle Of Galwan?
Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC, also known as B. Santosh Babu, led the 16 Bihar Regiment during their deployment in Galwan Valley (Eastern Ladakh) as part of Operation SNOW LEOPARD. He played a crucial role in setting up an Observation Post despite facing enemy forces. Celebrated as the war’s ‘hero’, he engaged in intense hand-to-hand combat. Unfortunately, he later succumbed to injuries from the assault and from falling into icy waters. Babu was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), India’s second highest wartime bravery honor, posthumously by former President Ram Nath Kovind.
Battle Of Galwan inspired by India's Most Fearless 3
Battle Of Galwan draws its narrative from India's Most Fearless 3, authored by Rahul Singh and Shiv Aroor. This book recounts ten authentic tales of ‘remarkable bravery and valor, showcasing the heroism exhibited by Indian soldiers in extremely challenging circumstances and under severe provocation.’
About Galwan Valley Conflict
The Galwan Valley Conflict represents a crucial episode in the annals of the Indian armed forces. In June 2020, a series of confrontations between Indian and Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley area of Ladakh led to fatalities on both sides amid a significant intensification of the Sino-Indian border tensions. Soldiers engaged in fierce hand-to-hand combat.
Reports indicate that 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives, while China acknowledged 4 fatalities. The Galwan Valley Conflict stemmed from disagreements over infrastructure projects and territorial assertions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. It is reported that China opposed India's construction of a road linking the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi road to a key airbase, perceiving it as a challenge to their territorial claims in the area.
Following the clash, India and China participated in several rounds of diplomatic and military discussions to ease tensions and address the border dispute. However, both nations have yet to reach a resolution.
Battle of Galwan is produced by Salma Khan under the Salman Khan Films banner. The war film is set to premiere on April 17.
