No CBFC Screening Yet for Salman Khan's Maatrubhumi, Film Still Stuck Over China Link

Hopes that Salman Khan's long-delayed war drama Maatrubhumi might soon clear its certification hurdle appear to be unfounded. Social media chatter since September 14 had suggested the film would be screened for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) as early as next week, sparking speculation that a theatrical release was finally within reach.

Those reports, however, do not reflect the current position. The film continues to be held up by issues stemming from its China connection, and no CBFC screening has been scheduled.

"I wish these reports were true. But with a heavy heart, I'd like to inform you that there has sadly been no update about its CBFC screening. The film is still stuck due to its China connection," a source said.

The makers are said to be working to resolve the matter and remain in contact with the relevant government officials. Certification — and with it a cinema release — will follow only once a solution is found. That could take days, weeks or considerably longer, and until then the film's status is unchanged.

Originally announced as Battle Of Galwan and renamed earlier this year, Maatrubhumi draws on the 2020 India-China conflict. With ties between the two countries improving in recent times, the Ministry of Defence had reservations about certain aspects of the film's content. It was previously reported that the word "China" may not be mentioned in the film at all.

The uncertainty has also clouded the film's release window. In July, it was reported that Maatrubhumi could slip to 2027; days after that report circulated widely, the makers unveiled a new poster confirming a 2026 arrival. Whether that holds depends on how quickly the outstanding issues are settled. Should they be resolved soon, the makers will try to bring the film to theatres in 2026 itself, though few release slots remain open. Otherwise, a shift to 2027 is likely.