📌 Key Points
- Rumors of ‘Maatrubhumi’ skipping theaters for OTT are false, according to sources.
- Salman Khan and director Apoorva Lakhia are committed to a theatrical release.
- The film faced controversy over its depiction of the India-China border clash.
- Direct-to-OTT releases also require government certification.
Despite rumors, Salman Khan’s ‘Maatrubhumi’ is heading for a theatrical release. Sources close to the project have refuted claims of an OTT release. The film, which faced controversy for its China depiction, aims for a grand theatrical experience.
Theatrical Release Confirmed for ‘Maatrubhumi’
Ever since reports emerged about Salman Khan ’s Maatrubhumi being “sanitised,” with references to China being removed, speculation has been rife that the film might skip a theatrical release and head straight to OTT. However, a source close to the project has now shut down these rumours.
“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,” said a source.
OTT Release Misconceptions Addressed
Adding to this, another industry insider shared, “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.”
The film’s teaser, released in December, showed Salman leading his troops in a close combat battle against Chinese forces in Eastern Ladakh. It was touted to be based on the clash between Indian soldiers and Chinese troops at the Galwan Valley in 2020. The teaser sparked controversy when state-backed media in China, particularly the Global Times, claimed that it “distorts facts” and fuels anti-China sentiment.
Controversy Surrounding the Film’s Depiction
Produced by Salma Khan under the banner of Salman Khan Films and directed by Apoorva Lakhia, Maatrubhumi stars Salman as an Indian Army Colonel. It also stars Chitrangda Singh . The makers say that the film now aims to present an unflinching portrayal of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, while balancing the intensity of conflict with the intimacy of love and family. No release date has been announced yet.
Despite speculation, ‘Maatrubhumi’ is slated for theatrical release. The filmmakers are committed to showcasing the film on the big screen once the issues surrounding the film are resolved, promising audiences a grand cinematic experience.
