Salman Khan's 'Matrubhoomi' Faces Certification Hurdle: No Defence Ministry Clearance Even After Second Screening

Salman Khan's upcoming war drama Matrubhoomi has reportedly encountered another hurdle on its path to release. Despite undergoing a second screening for the Ministry of Defence, the film is still awaiting the necessary clearance, leaving its release plans uncertain.

The film, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, was originally titled Battle of Galwan and is based on the 2020 India-China clash in the Galwan Valley. The project has attracted considerable attention because of its military backdrop and Salman Khan's portrayal of an army officer.

According to a report by Mid-Day cited in the supplied article, the filmmakers have yet to receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Defence. This approval is reportedly the key step that must be completed before the team can proceed with certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

Why Is Matrubhoomi Facing Delays?

The film's reported delay is linked to the approval process for productions depicting the Indian Armed Forces.

According to the report, films, documentaries and web series based on the military are subject to a review process involving the relevant defence authorities. The purpose is to examine how military operations, personnel and sensitive subjects are represented.

Matrubhoomi was reportedly screened for the Ministry of Defence in mid-2026. Following the initial screening, officials are said to have suggested changes to certain parts of the film.

The filmmakers subsequently reshot some sequences in an effort to address the feedback. However, the film has reportedly not yet received the final clearance required to move forward.

From Battle of Galwan to Matrubhoomi: What Has Changed?

One of the notable developments surrounding the project has been its change of title from Battle of Galwan to Matrubhoomi.

Reports have also indicated that the filmmakers have made several adjustments over the past few months. These reportedly include changes to the portrayal of the neighbouring country and the overall tone of the narrative.

The changes appear to be part of the effort to prepare the film for the approval process. However, the precise details of the requested modifications have not been officially established in the supplied report.

The film's subject matter makes the review particularly significant, as it depicts a real military confrontation between India and China.

What Happened During the Second Screening?

According to the report, Salman Khan, director Apoorva Lakhia and the production team submitted another cut of the film to the Ministry of Defence in October 2026.

The team reportedly expected the latest screening to help move the approval process forward. However, the NOC remains pending, and there has been no confirmed announcement that the film has received the necessary clearance.

Until the review process is completed, the filmmakers may be unable to proceed with the remaining certification steps as anticipated.

It is important to note that the reported status is based on media coverage; the ministry's specific observations and the reasons for the pending approval have not been independently confirmed here.

Will Matrubhoomi Release Next Year?

The pending clearance has created uncertainty around the film's release schedule.

The makers had reportedly hoped to resolve the matter soon and apply for a CBFC certificate. However, without the required defence-related approval, finalising a release date could prove difficult.

As a result, it remains unclear whether the film will arrive according to its intended schedule or face a further delay.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan is also associated with another upcoming project, reportedly titled Monster, directed by Vamsi Paidipally and featuring Nayanthara. The film is said to be targeting an Eid release next year.

What Happens Next?

For now, the immediate priority for the Matrubhoomi team is to secure the necessary clearance and proceed with the certification process.

The film's eventual release will depend on the outcome of the review, any additional changes requested and the subsequent certification timeline.

With Salman Khan in the lead and the Galwan Valley confrontation forming the backdrop, the project has already generated considerable interest. However, until an official update arrives from the filmmakers or the relevant authorities, its release date remains uncertain.

Note: The reported Ministry of Defence clearance status and screening details are based on the supplied article and attributed media reports. No official confirmation of the final decision or release date is included in the material provided.