Maatrubhumi Release Delayed? Salman Khan's Much-Awaited Film Faces Crisis After Prashant Tamang's Death - DEET

The release of Salman Khan's war drama Maatrubhumi, earlier titled Battle of Galwan, is now likely delayed. The change follows the death of actor-singer Prashant Tamang, who had a major role. The film had been lined up for an early April theatrical opening, but unfinished scenes and script changes have forced the team to reconsider the schedule.

Prashant, who rose to fame after winning Indian Idol 3, played the main antagonist in Maatrubhumi. Parts of the character arc had been completed before Prashant died in January. However, some of the most significant moments involving the villain, including dramatic and high-intensity sequences, were still to be filmed when production halted.

Maatrubhumi release plans hit by Prashant Tamang’s unfinished shoot

According to India Today, the production had locked in additional dates with Prashant for crucial scenes. The plan was to expand on the character through several set pieces and confrontations. With those segments now unwritten on camera, the creative team must decide whether to redesign the story or attempt to retain the original vision.

The report quoted a source describing the situation as severe for the production. "The team had a couple of planned schedules where Prashant had to shoot some really key scenes. With him gone, the team is absolutely in crisis," the source told India Today. "Close-ups could still be managed, but he was also part of extensive action sequences. It would not only be financially unviable but also a logistical nightmare," the source added.

Maatrubhumi release timeline, AI and VFX options under review

Scheduling limitations involving Salman Khan have added another layer of difficulty, especially for large-scale action blocks. Coordinating new dates while keeping visual continuity has proved complex. The makers are weighing two main paths: recast the antagonist and reshoot, or digitally complete Prashant’s remaining scenes using AI and VFX, which would first need the consent of Prashant’s family.

The team is expected to choose a way forward soon so that filming can finish and full post-production can begin. A final release date has not been confirmed, but trade talk suggests the producers may now aim for an Independence Day slot, which would align with the film’s patriotic and conflict-based narrative.

Maatrubhumi is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and also features Chitrangda Singh in an important role opposite Salman Khan. The project was once widely reported as a retelling of the 2020 Indo-China Galwan clash, though recent positioning appears broader. Promotional material now carries the line, 'May War Rest In Peace,' hinting at a more reflective take on warfare and its impact.