China objects to Salman Khan’s Galwan film

The upcoming Hindi film Battle of Galwan, starring actor Salman Khan, has triggered a diplomatic stir after China objected to the project, prompting a firm response from India.
The film, produced by Salman Khan himself, is based on the 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley along the Line of Actual Control.
Salman Khan plays the role of an Indian soldier in the film. A teaser released recently drew widespread attention and strong reactions online.
Chinese state media and officials criticised the film, alleging that it could damage bilateral relations and accusing it of misrepresenting historical events related to the Galwan Valley
confrontation.
The objections were raised soon after the teaser gained traction on social media platforms.
Reacting to the protest, Indian authorities asserted that India, as a democratic nation, upholds freedom of expression and creative liberty.
Officials said filmmakers and artists are free to portray stories of national importance and that any form of foreign interference in creative expression is unacceptable.
The government maintained that cultural and artistic works made within India are governed by domestic laws and constitutional values, and external pressure would not dictate creative choices.
The Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 marked one of the most serious military confrontations between India and China in decades, resulting in casualties on both sides and significantly impacting bilateral relations.
The controversy surrounding Battle of Galwan has further drawn public attention to the film, which is expected to depict the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers during the border confrontation.