Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is set to portray a character inspired by real-life war hero Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC in his upcoming film 'Battle of Galwan'. The movie, based on true events from the Indo-Sino border conflict, promises to bring the extraordinary bravery of Indian soldiers to the big screen with powerful storytelling and star-studded performances.
Inspiration Behind 'Battle of Galwan'
The film finds its creative foundation in the acclaimed book 'India's Most Fearless 3', authored by Rahul Singh and Shiv Aroor. This compelling volume features ten true stories showcasing exceptional courage and fearlessness displayed by Indian soldiers under hostile conditions and grave provocation.
Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC serves as the primary inspiration for Salman Khan's character. As the commanding officer who led the mission during the Galwan Valley clash, Colonel Babu was among the twenty soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending Indian territory against overwhelming odds.
About Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC
Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC served as the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, which had been deployed in the strategically important Galwan Valley region of Ladakh in 2020. His responsibilities included establishing an observation post during Operation Snow Leopard, a critical military operation in the high-altitude region.
During the violent clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in June 2020, soldiers from both sides engaged in fierce combat, including intense hand-to-hand fighting in the challenging terrain. Colonel Babu sustained severe injuries during the confrontation and tragically fell into freezing waters, leading to his martyrdom alongside nineteen fellow soldiers.
In recognition of his exceptional bravery and supreme sacrifice, former President of India Ram Nath Kovind posthumously awarded Colonel Babu the Maha Vir Chakra, India's second-highest gallantry award for acts of conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy.
Premise and Cast of 'Battle of Galwan'
The official synopsis of 'Battle of Galwan' reveals that the film will depict the events of June 15, 2020, when approximately 200 Indian soldiers demonstrated remarkable courage while defending their territory against a significantly larger force of around 1,200 soldiers from the Chinese People's Liberation Army.
Beyond Salman Khan's lead role, the film features an impressive ensemble cast including Chitrangada Singh, Abhilash Chaudhary, Ankur Bhatia, Zeyn Shaw, Vipin Bhardwaj, and several other talented performers. The project aims to create a cinematic tribute that honors the valor and sacrifice of Indian armed forces while delivering compelling entertainment.
This film represents a significant addition to Bollywood's growing collection of military and patriotic narratives, bringing attention to contemporary conflicts and the real heroes who defend the nation's borders under extreme circumstances.
