Chinese Media Critiques Salman Khan’s ‘Battle of Galwan’, FWICE Expert Weighs In

The teaser for Salman Khan's upcoming film, 'Battle of Galwan', released on December 27, has sparked criticism from segments of the Chinese media. Commentators have accused the film of distorting historical facts. Nevertheless, Ashoke Pandit, Chief Advisor of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), believes that this criticism will not impact the film's performance.

According to a report from the Global Times, a Chinese tabloid, Bollywood films are primarily entertainment-driven and cannot alter historical narratives. This sentiment was echoed by many Chinese netizens who criticized the film's trailer.

Pandit stated, “We are not surprised or shocked by the Chinese media's response to the Galwan film. If a filmmaker chooses to depict the India-China confrontation, it is their prerogative. I don't believe this will affect the film's release or its box office collection.”

He added that the filmmakers likely anticipated a reaction from China due to the film's subject matter, emphasizing their right to portray the events surrounding Galwan. He highlighted the ongoing tensions between China and India, particularly China's support for Pakistan, and praised the film's production. “If the film is good, it will do well,” he affirmed.

Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, 'Battle of Galwan' features Salman Khan as Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu and stars Chitrangda Singh. Based on the book 'India’s Most Fearless 3', the film revisits the intense 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley, focusing on the brutal hand-to-hand combat that occurred.