Salman Khan's 'Battle of Galwan' Prep: A Gritty Look at His Transformation!

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is leaving no stone unturned for his highly anticipated patriotic military action drama, 'Battle of Galwan'. Set to portray the heroic Colonel B. Santosh Babu, who led Indian troops during the intense 2020 Galwan Valley clash, Salman is undergoing a rigorous and demanding preparation regimen, particularly for the film's pivotal hand-to-hand combat sequences.

Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, 'Battle of Galwan' is based on the real-life events of the India-China border conflict, which famously saw soldiers engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat without a single bullet being fired. To authentically depict this challenging reality, Salman Khan's transformation is both physical and mental, showcasing his deep commitment to the role.

A Striking Physical Transformation

Recent reports and glimpses shared by the makers reveal a visibly leaner and more rugged Salman Khan. After a brief period of body-shaming earlier this year, the actor has bounced back with a sharp, defined physique. His diet is strictly home-cooked, focusing on lean proteins and vegetables, with a stark reduction in processed carbs and alcohol. Sources close to the production even claim he's limiting himself to "one spoonful of rice a day" to maintain his crisp definition.

His workout routine is equally intense, following a six-day-a-week plan that combines high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with volume sets, targeting different muscle groups daily. Additionally, outdoor cardio sessions are incorporated to build the endurance and stamina required for sustained combat sequences. In a surprising detail reflecting his dedication to authenticity, Salman is reportedly training without air conditioning or fans in his gym, promoting dehydration and faster water loss, mirroring the harsh conditions faced by soldiers.

Mastering Hand-to-Hand Combat

The core of 'Battle of Galwan' lies in its depiction of the brutal hand-to-hand combat. A blurred behind-the-scenes video recently shared by director Apoorva Lakhia shows Salman engaged in intense fight training with multiple individuals, hinting at the raw and gritty action sequences awaiting audiences. While the video keeps details under wraps, Salman's voice can be heard in the background, showcasing his dedication to mastering the intricate movements and physicality required for these sequences.

This focused training is crucial as the film aims to be a respectful and impactful portrayal of the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers in one of the most significant border conflicts in recent history. Salman's commitment extends to training in high-altitude conditions, given that a major portion of the film will be shot in Ladakh, the very region where the clash occurred.

Beyond the Physical: Portraying a Real-Life Hero

'Battle of Galwan' marks a significant milestone in Salman Khan's career as he takes on his first full-length portrayal of a real-life character. The film draws from the Galwan chapter of the book India's Most Fearless 3 by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh, aiming to bring an emotionally resonant and powerful account of courage to the big screen.

With Chitrangda Singh reportedly joining as the leading lady and a targeted 2025 release, 'Battle of Galwan' is rapidly building anticipation. Salman Khan's unwavering dedication to embodying Colonel B. Santosh Babu and delivering impactful hand-to-hand combat sequences is setting the stage for a compelling cinematic tribute to the Indian armed forces. Fans are eagerly awaiting more glimpses into this transformative role and the gripping narrative that promises to highlight a pivotal moment in modern Indian history.