Actor Salman Khan has reportedly decided to stick with a theatrical release for his upcoming film Maatrubhumi, putting an end to speculation about a direct OTT premiere. The war drama, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, is now expected to arrive in cinemas around May 2026.
Makers Rejects OTT Route
Amid rumours that the film might skip theatres due to delays and content-related challenges, reports indicate that Salman Khan is clear about bringing the film to the big screen. According to Bollywood Hungama, the actor and the director are committed to a theatrical release.
A source quoted by the portal said, “Salman continues to be a mega star and he has mounted Maatrubhumi on a grand scale. It's a film for the big screen and hence, he and director Apoorva Lakhia are committed to releasing the film theatrically once the issues surrounding the film are resolved.”
OTT Release Wouldn't Bypass Certification
There was also speculation that a digital release could help avoid censorship hurdles. However, the report clarified that this assumption is incorrect. “There's a general misconception among certain people that there's no censorship on OTT. Hence, they feel that if Salman Khan opts to skip a theatrical release, he'll be able to drop the film on OTT without any problem.
However, that's not how it works. Every film that releases directly on streaming platforms also goes through the certification process, just like any theatrical film. So, even for a direct-to-OTT premiere, the government must clear the film before it can be presented to the public.”
Film Undergoes Major Changes
Maatrubhumi, which was earlier titled Battle of Galwan, has seen several changes during its making. Produced by Salma Khan (Salman Khan's mother) under Salman Khan Films, the movie stars Salman Khan as an Indian Army Colonel, with Chitrangda Singh playing a key role.
The film has also undergone significant changes and reshoots. Following inputs from the Defence Ministry, the makers have removed references to China and the Galwan Valley. The film was extensively reworked, with around 40% reshot to shift towards a more fictional narrative, adding romance and a deeper backstory.
With its revised storyline and large-scale presentation, Maatrubhumi is now being positioned as a theatrical spectacle, with the makers confident about its big-screen appeal.
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