After months of uncertainty, Salman Khan’s Maatrubhumi may finally be moving towards a theatrical release. The war drama, which has been waiting for government clearance, has reportedly received a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. If the next round of approvals goes through as planned, the film could reach cinemas as early as November.

According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the revised version of Maatrubhumi was cleared by the I&B Ministry last week. The makers are now expected to submit the film to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), with November 13 reportedly being considered as a possible release date.

The film’s journey to the big screen hasn’t been straightforward.

Salman Khan eyeing November 13 release?

With the government clearance reportedly in place, the CBFC is the next major hurdle. If the certification process is wrapped up this month, Salman is reportedly looking at November 13 for the theatrical release.

A source told the publication that Salman feels the period after Diwali could work well for the film, with audiences still in a festive mood.

“Salman Khan is now eyeing November 13. He believes that the post-Diwali period, when people would still be in a celebratory mood, would be apt for the film’s release,” the source said.

A clearer picture on the release date is expected over the next 10 days, according to the report. For now, though, the film has at least cleared one of the biggest roadblocks standing between it and the big screen.

Why was Maatrubhumi delayed?

Maatrubhumi was originally announced as Battle Of Galwan and is based on the 2020 conflict between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh. The project had remained stuck for some time as it awaited government clearance.

As per the report, the Ministry of Defence had raised concerns about certain aspects of the film, including its depiction of China. The report linked the delay to the broader improvement in India-China ties.

The makers subsequently worked on a revised version of the film. A source quoted by Bollywood Hungama said the I&B Ministry is now satisfied with the changes and issued the NOC last week.

“The officials of the I&B Ministry are now satisfied with the new version of Maatrubhumi submitted by the makers. Hence, they gave an NOC to the war saga last week. This means that the film can now be made available for public consumption,” the source said.

The report also claims that the new version presents the relationship between India and China in a “positive light”.

More about Maatrubhumi

Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, Maatrubhumi stars Salman Khan and Chitrangada Singh. The film draws from the 2020 India-China border conflict and was earlier being developed under the title Battle Of Galwan.

The change in title came earlier this year, as the makers continued to work on the project and its content.

Salman, meanwhile, has another big project lined up. The actor is set to star in Vamshi Paidipally’s tentatively titled SVC63, which also features Nayanthara.

Source: India Today