There’s always a certain curiosity around how far actors go to prepare for a role, especially when it comes to physically demanding films. And with Salman Khan’s next project Maatrubhumi, that curiosity has
only grown stronger, with early details hinting at a preparation process that’s anything but routine.
The actor is said to have undergone a significant physical transformation for the film, taking his fitness regimen to extreme conditions. According to a source associated with the production, a major part of this preparation took place in Ladakh, where the high-altitude environment added an extra layer of challenge to his training.
“Salman Khan has undergone a remarkable physical transformation for the film. He has been training at extreme high altitudes in Ladakh, combining intense endurance drills with heavy weight sessions. It is easily one of the most grueling fitness regimens he has taken on in recent years, reflecting a completely new level of commitment to the role. During a 45-day schedule in Ladakh, the superstar adopted a calisthenics-based fitness routine to maintain his physique, as it was difficult to carry a full gym setup at such high-altitude shooting locations,” the source told Hindustan Times.
Working in Ladakh comes with its own set of physical limitations, especially due to reduced oxygen levels. In such conditions, conventional gym setups are difficult to maintain, which is why the actor reportedly leaned on calisthenics, a form of strength training that uses body weight instead of equipment. Exercises like push-ups, squats, planks, lunges and pull-ups form the core of such routines, allowing for a full-body workout without the need for machines.
What makes the process more notable, the source added, is that the actor continued training despite dealing with injuries during the schedule. “What makes this even more incredible is that Salman is pushing through all of this despite dealing with multiple injuries. To train with such intensity, discipline, and passion under those conditions… honestly, it’s something only Salman Khan can pull off.”
The film itself has undergone notable changes over the past few months. Initially titled Battle of Galwan, the project was believed to be inspired by the 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley. However, the makers have since reworked the narrative, renaming the film Maatrubhumi and removing direct references to China and the Galwan Valley. Reports suggest that the team is currently engaged in extensive reshoots to align with the revised direction.
Earlier, a teaser released in December had depicted Salman leading a unit of Indian soldiers in a combat situation set in Eastern Ladakh, closely mirroring the Galwan Valley conflict. The teaser also drew criticism from Chinese state-backed media, including Global Times, which claimed that it “distorts facts” and fuels anti-China sentiment.
Backed by Salman’s mother Salma Khan under the Salman Khan Films banner and directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film features Salman in the role of an Indian Army Colonel. Actor Chitrangda Singh also plays a key role in the project.
The makers say the film is now positioned as a story that explores courage, sacrifice and resilience, while also weaving in themes of personal relationships and emotional conflict. A release date for Maatrubhumi is yet to be announced.
