Anup Bikram Shahi cast in Salman Khan's 'Matrubhoomi', new release date announced

The war film "Matrubhoomi: May War Rest in Peace," starring Indian actor Salman Khan and Nepali actor Anup Bikram Shahi, will be released on December 4.

Salman announced the new date at a trailer launch event in Mumbai on Friday. The film was previously titled "Battle of Galwan," but the name was changed earlier this year. Initially planned for release in January or June, it was later pushed to August.

According to Salman, the delay was due to a decision not to compromise on the quality of visual effects and to obstacles during filming. Director Apoorva Lakhia said Anup Bikram plays the villain's role in the film.

Lakhia said Anup Bikram was selected from auditions involving hundreds of actors from around the world. Anup Bikram is said to have played the role of a major in the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

Anup Bikram said working with Salman is a great opportunity and that he is still nervous. The film is inspired by the 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in the Galwan area of eastern Ladakh. Salman plays the role of Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment.

Actress Chitrangada Singh also plays a lead role in the film. According to the director, the film is not just about war but also a story of humanity, sacrifice and the soldiers' silent struggle. Anup Bikram appears briefly in the film's title song.