At the Maatrubhumi trailer launch today, Salman Khan broke silence over reports of changes to 'anti-China' content in the script of the film owing to government pressure, calling it "nonsense". At the event, the Bollywood superstar described the plot of the film as 'a story of the soldiers of two countries'.
"The story is about soldiers, soldiers of two countries. There's no negative force in the story. Actually, the situation is negative. But it's like nation comes first for the soldiers. They are caught in a situation and both the sides are trying to solve this," Salman said at the event.
"Our director used to have an old version," he added cheekily, alluding to Apoorva Lakhia's previous interpretations.
Maatrubhumi was stuck in limbo amid thaw in India-China ties. Originally titled Battle of Galwan, the film was release in theatres in April.
There were reports that the authorities are seeking changes with the film, as it was inspired by the 2020 clash between the Indian Army and Chinese troops, a subject that could prove sensitive amid the current improvement in bilateral relations.
Dismissing the claims of interference, Salman Khan said, "This ongoing narrative that we were making a film against China and that our government has pressured us to change the script or rewrite it, it's all nonsense (ye sab bakwaas hai). It's not true at all."
The actor, who has also produced Maatrubhumi, also clarified that the film is not a biopic.
"This is not a biopic. This is inspired... I just wanted a film that has a man-on-man scuffle. Because there are Chinese and us (Indians) in the story, so it appeared as if this will strain our relationship. But I don't believe that the Chinese will say, 'Salman Khan has made a film, let's attack India'."
A day ago, Shiv Aroor, Managing Editor, NDTV, and Rahul Singh, officially ended their collaboration with Maatrubhumi. The defence journalists were credited with the original idea for the film, which was based on a story from their book, India's Most Fearless 3.
A statement from @RahulSinghx & me, as we wish the Maatrubhumi film team the very best! @BeingSalmanKhan @LakhiaApoorva @SKFilmsOfficial #IndiasMostFearless
— Shiv Aroor (@ShivAroor) November 5, 2026
"As the film has evolved, it has moved beyond the account of the Galwan incident in our India's Most Fearless series that first brought us on board. We are grateful to Salman Khan, Apoorva Lakhia and the entire team for their warmth and the opportunity to be part of this journey. We hold them in the highest regard and wish them the very best as they bring their vision to the screen. Our heartfelt wishes for the film's success will always be with them," they said in a statement.
Maatrubhumi is set to be released in theatres on December 4.
Also Read | Salman Khan's Maatrubhumi Given Government Nod, To Release Next Month? What We Know
