Salman Khan to Portray Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu in Upcoming Patriotic Action-Drama

Bollywood megastar Salman Khan is gearing up to portray a real-life national hero in his next film. The actor will play the role of Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu, the commanding officer who sacrificed his life during the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops in June 2020. The film will be directed by Apoorva Lakhia and is scheduled to go on floors in July 2025.

Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu led the 16 Bihar Regiment and was one of the first Indian officers to die in action against the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) since 1967. He was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award, for his extraordinary bravery and leadership during the fierce hand-to-hand combat that erupted at the Line of Actual Control.

The film is inspired by the first chapter of the book India’s Most Fearless 3, written by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh. The chapter provides a gripping, detailed account of the Galwan clash and the courage displayed by Colonel Babu and his troops. The screenplay for the film has been adapted by Suresh Nair along with Chintan Gandhi and Chintan Shah, with Shah also contributing to the dialogue writing.

A source close to the production revealed, “Colonel Babu’s character is deeply heroic. He proved his mettle in multiple counterinsurgency and infiltration operations. This film focuses on his ultimate sacrifice and leadership during the Galwan clash. The filmmakers have secured the rights to adapt the chapter titled ‘I Had Never Seen Such Fierce Fighting — The Galwan Clash of June 2020’.”

This patriotic drama marks the first collaboration between Salman Khan and director Apoorva Lakhia, who is best known for action-driven films such as Shootout at Lokhandwala and Mission Istaanbul. The film is expected to present a gritty and respectful portrayal of the real-life events, focusing on the intense conflict and emotional strength of the soldiers involved.

Salman Khan has already started preparing for the physically demanding role. Reports suggest that the actor is undergoing military-style physical training at his farmhouse in Panvel to get into the mindset and physicality of an Indian Army officer. Known for his commitment to action roles, Salman is expected to bring authenticity and emotional depth to the character of Colonel Babu.

This film is part of a growing trend in Indian cinema that pays tribute to the lives and sacrifices of armed forces personnel. With a strong script, a high-profile lead actor, and a story rooted in real events, the project is poised to make a powerful impact on audiences across the country.

Further announcements about the supporting cast and official release date are expected in the coming months. For now, the anticipation is building around this poignant and patriotic tribute to one of India’s bravest sons, Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu.