The sudden title change comes with a wake of controversy that has surrounded with the film’s portrayal of the 2020 Galwan Valley’s conflict between Indian and Chinese forces. 

The veteran actor unveiled the new title on the social media striking a poster that has featured him injured and in blood , resisting an attack. The caption on the post read as , ‘May War Rest In Peace’ with hashtag, ‘ #Maatrubhumi.  Salman Khan tagged director Apoorva Lakhia and his co-star Chitrangda Singh with his production banner, Salman Khan Films. 

The updated poster previously announced the release date of April 10th that sparked of speculation among the fans about the possible delay in its release.  The title changes also led to the confusion online with many fans questioning the rebranding signal and deeper alterations to film’s narrative. 

The controversy intensified followed by a scrutiny.

The film is already under scrutiny following the release of its teaser in December. The teaser showcased an intense close combat sequence that was inspired by the Galwan clash in Eastern Ladakh.  Viewers who felt the similarity between the scenes that featured Salman Khan wielding a barbed wire weapon and the famous battle sequence from Game of Thrones.   Additionally Salman Khan ‘s undemonstrativer  on screen presence drew criticism though the actor had later defended the statement . He stated that as an Army Colonel required the composure that he had to maintain without the exaggerated emotions. 

The controversy had intensified when Chinese media outlet Global Times had accused the film of distorting the facts and felt it was promoting anti China and it hurt their sentiments, due to which these claims added an international dimension to the debate and placed the film under political and creative scrutiny.

About Maatrubhoomi – A tale of a Indian Army Colonel.

Produced by Salman Khan the film is directedby Lakhia. Maatrubhoomi tells a story of an Indian Army Colonel who led his troops against the overwhelming odds that he had to face challenges with.  The makers have described the film as a tribute to courage, sacrifice and resilience. It also blends with the harsh realities of war with emotional undertone of love and family.  Maatrubhoomi will carry the weight of both cinematic experience as well as the geopolitical sensitivity as it is all set for its release.