Salman Khan Cancels Mumbai Shoot for Battle of Galwan at the Last Minute

Salman Khan has reportedly made a surprising last-minute decision—canceling the Mumbai shooting schedule for his upcoming war thriller Battle of Galwan. The move comes just 48 hours before the filming was set to begin, with production now slated to commence in Ladakh from September.

Why the Sudden Change?

According to insiders, a 10-day Mumbai shoot was scheduled to start in early August, with studio sets already in place. Salman had undergone high-altitude training and completed a low-oxygen prep regimen to gear up for the physically demanding role.

However, he decided to cancel the Mumbai schedule just days before filming. Sources cite his preference to begin the shoot directly in Ladakh—suggesting greater authenticity for the film’s high-altitude action sequences. The film will instead start with an intense Ladakh schedule from September.

What Battle of Galwan Is All About

Salman will portray Colonel B. Santosh Babu, the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, who was martyred during the real-life Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film marks his first collaboration with the superstar and features Chitrangda Singh in a pivotal role.

The project is expected to include complex hand-to-hand combat scenes, challenging terrain, night takes, and even shooting in melting snow and freezing waters—fitting tribute to the soldiers who fought without firearms at over 15,000 feet altitude.

A Delay in Release Window

The change in schedule has reportedly affected the original release plans. The filmmakers are now likely to skip the Eid 2026 release slot, a traditional window for Salman’s films. Instead, they are now looking at Bakri Eid (May 2026) or Independence Day (August 2026) as potential release dates. The aim is to ensure both production quality and strategic timing rather than rushing to meet an earlier slot.

Salman’s Final Word

After the previous underperformance of Sikandar, Salman is reportedly taking a cautious, measured approach this time. With physically demanding preparation and carefully chosen shooting locations, he appears committed to delivering a powerful and authentic cinematic experience.

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Salman’s change of plan—and the decision to begin shooting deeper into Ladakh—signals a deliberate choice to value realism and preparation over convenience. It may cost time, but for a war drama rooted in real events, it could mean the difference between good and unforgettable.