Salman Khan’s Battle of Galwan likely to hit theatres on Independence Day 2026

Salman Khan’s upcoming war drama Battle of Galwan has reportedly been postponed, with the film now eyeing an Independence Day 2026 theatrical release.

The Apoorva Lakhia directorial was earlier scheduled to hit screens on April 17, but fresh reports suggest the makers have pushed the date to capitalise on the patriotic fervour around August 15. According to Bollywood Hungama, Battle of Galwan is now likely to release on August 14, 2026. Quoting a source, the report said the team believes an Independence Day window would be more suitable for a film rooted in national sentiment.

“Battle of Galwan has indeed been postponed and it’ll now release on August 14, 2026. Salman Khan and the makers feel it’s a better date since Independence Day falls on August 15. The patriotic sentiment will be at an all-time high, and Battle of Galwan would be an ideal watch during this period,” the source said.

While the makers are yet to make an official announcement, an update is expected soon. The delay is reportedly linked to pending shoot schedules and reshoots. Another source told the portal that filming is still underway and taking longer than anticipated.

“From Monday, February 9, a one-week schedule will commence at the Golden Tobacco Factory in Mumbai. After that, a few more days of shooting will remain, and the film is expected to wrap by the end of February,” the source said.

Following the completion of filming, director Apoorva Lakhia is expected to begin editing the reshot portions. The film will also need to be screened for the Ministry of Defence as per protocol — a process that could further extend timelines.

“Because of the remaining shoot and the mandatory Ministry of Defence clearance, the makers feel they won’t be able to meet the April 17 deadline. Salman Khan is clear that a special, patriotic film like this needs to be nurtured carefully. He has told the team not to rush and to ensure the final product is appealing, compelling and cinematic,” the source added.

If Battle of Galwan does arrive on August 14, it is expected to clash at the box office with Kartik Aaryan’s Naagzilla.

About Battle of Galwan

Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, Battle of Galwan is based on the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops and draws from the book India’s Most Fearless 3. The film depicts the brutal hand-to-hand combat fought without firearms, making it one of the most intense and emotionally charged episodes in recent Indian military history.

Salman Khan will be seen in a rugged, battle-hardened avatar, while Chitrangada Singh plays a pivotal role. Positioned as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers, Battle of Galwan is shaping up to be one of the most significant patriotic releases in Salman Khan’s filmography.