China objects to Salman Khan’s Battle of Galwan teaser, calling it factually incorrect and politically motivated. Read about the controversy, public reactions, and its impact on India–China relations.
New Delhi: Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s upcoming film Battle of Galwan has created a major controversy soon after the release of its teaser. China has strongly objected to the film, accusing it of showing the 2020 Galwan Valley clash in a biased and incorrect manner. Chinese state media and social media users claim the teaser spreads nationalism and could increase tensions between India and China.
The teaser was released on December 27, 2025, which also marked Salman Khan’s 60th birthday. While Indian audiences praised it as a tribute to Indian soldiers, the reaction from China has been sharp and critical. The issue has now sparked debates around cinema, patriotism, and international relations.
About the Film
Battle of Galwan is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced under the banner of Salman Khan Films. Salman Khan plays the role of an Indian Army soldier. The cast also includes Chitrangada Singh, Zeyn Shaw, Ankur Bhatia, Abhilash Chaudhary, Vipin Bhardwaj, and Heera Sohal.
The film is scheduled to release in theatres on April 17, 2026. Before shooting began, Salman Khan met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to seek permission for filming in sensitive areas like Ladakh, as the movie is based on real events.
The teaser, lasting about 1:20-1:30 minutes, includes strong patriotic dialogues such as “Jawaano yaad rahe, zakham lage toh medal samajhna aur maut dikhe toh salaam karna… Aaj nahi toh phir kabhi” and “Maut se kya darna, usse toh aana hi hai.” These lines highlight the bravery, courage, and sacrifice of soldiers.
Background of the Galwan Clash
The Galwan Valley clash took place on June 15, 2020, in Ladakh. It involved hand-to-hand combat between Indian and Chinese soldiers. Twenty Indian soldiers lost their lives in the incident. China officially admitted to four casualties, though many believe the actual number was higher. The clash badly damaged relations between the two countries, although recent months have seen some improvement, including troop disengagements and diplomatic engagements.
| Side | Official Claims | Alleged Higher Figures |
|---|---|---|
| India | 20 martyred | N/A |
| China | 4 casualties | Up to 38-43 (unconfirmed reports) |
China’s Strong Objection
China’s state-run newspaper Global Times published an article on December 30, 2025, sharply criticising the film. It accused Battle of Galwan of “distorting facts,” being “politically motivated,” and promoting anti-China feelings. The article claimed that films cannot change history and said the timing of the teaser was wrong, especially when India-China relations are slowly improving.
The report also repeated China’s claim that India provoked the 2020 clash. Chinese social media users echoed similar views, saying the film does not show the “true story.” There are even reports of possible restrictions on the film in China, though no official ban has been announced.
Impact on India–China Relations
By December 2025, relations between India and China had started showing signs of improvement. Both countries increased diplomatic talks, including a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in October 2024. This led to the disengagement of troops in parts of Ladakh and the signing of several agreements on border management and economic cooperation.
Trade between the two countries also remained strong, reaching around $136 billion in 2024–25, showing how closely their economies are linked. However, China has accused the United States of trying to block better India–China relations.
Experts warn that cultural disputes, such as the controversy over this film, could again increase tensions. Such issues may lead to calls for boycotts or closer scrutiny of business and investments between the two nations.
Reaction in India
In India, fans welcomed the teaser with excitement. Many praised Salman Khan’s look and called the film bold and patriotic. Social media was filled with comments describing his character as fearless and strong.
However, some critics on social media questioned a brief smile seen on Salman Khan’s face in the teaser, calling it unsuitable for a war film. Political commentator Tehseen Poonawalla defended the actor on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that the smile showed calmness, courage, and acceptance—qualities often seen in soldiers who face danger without fear.
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Similar Incidents in the Past
This is not the first time Bollywood films have upset China. In the past, movies like Laxmii (2020) also faced criticism. China has earlier banned films that show Tibet or the Dalai Lama, similar to how Hollywood films like Seven Years in Tibet were restricted.
For many years, Bollywood avoided making films about the 1962 India–China war and focused more on conflicts involving Pakistan or British rule. However, recent films have started showing China as an antagonist, which experts say could put additional pressure on already sensitive India–China ties.
Social Media and Wider Impact
The controversy quickly spread on X, with hashtags like #BattleOfGalwan, #SalmanKhan, #China, and #FilmControversy trending. Media houses such as Times Now, CNN-News18, and DNA covered the issue extensively. Some users said China appeared rattled by the teaser, while others debated whether such films should be seen as tributes or propaganda.
The situation highlights how films based on sensitive historical events can affect diplomacy. Comparisons are already being made with other controversial films like The Kashmir Files. As the release date approaches, Battle of Galwan may influence box office trends and further impact discussions around India-China relations.
For now, the filmmakers have not issued any official response, but the debate around the film continues to grow.
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