KKN Gurugram Desk | Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is currently at the center of major film industry buzz regarding his next big project. While fans have been eagerly waiting for updates on Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, reports suggest that Salman may shift his focus to a Galwan Valley-based war film directed by Apoorva Lakhia. At the same time, Kabir Khan, the director of the original Bajrangi Bhaijaan, is reportedly more inclined to work with Salman on a standalone action drama titled Babbar Sher.

This tug-of-war between projects has caused delays in finalizing Salman’s next, with discussions still ongoing. Here’s a detailed look at what lies ahead for the superstar and the behind-the-scenes drama shaping these decisions.

Salman Khan’s Dilemma: Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 vs. Babbar Sher

According to industry insiders, Salman Khan is keen on working on Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, a sequel to the 2015 blockbuster that not only broke box office records but also garnered critical acclaim for its emotional storyline and powerful performances.

The story idea for the sequel was pitched by KV Vijayendra Prasad, the veteran writer behind the original film. Salman reportedly loved the concept and invited Kabir Khan to direct it again. While Kabir appreciated the storyline, he has been reluctant to commit to the project due to the overwhelming expectations following the first film’s success. Sources say Kabir feels that matching the emotional depth and impact of the original may not be easy.

Instead, Kabir Khan has proposed working on a completely new action film titled Babbar Sher. It’s said to be a high-octane action drama that Kabir has been wanting to make for a long time. Salman is reportedly interested in the story but wants to prioritize Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 first.

Apoorva Lakhia’s War Film Based on Galwan Valley: The Frontrunner?

As Salman waits for clarity from Kabir Khan, he appears to have moved forward with Apoorva Lakhia, who has offered him a war drama based on the real-life Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese forces. According to reports, Salman is “inclined” toward this project, and Apoorva has already started pre-production planning.

This untitled war film is based on the courageous story of 200 Indian soldiers who faced over 1,200 well-equipped Chinese troops during the Galwan Valley skirmish. The film promises to be high on emotion, patriotism, and action, with Salman playing a commanding Indian Army officer.

If everything goes as planned, filming may begin by August or September 2025. Salman is also expected to co-produce the film in collaboration with a major studio, signaling the scale and seriousness of the project.

Galwan Valley Film: A Blend of Patriotism and Action

The war film has drawn attention not only for its intense and emotionally resonant script but also for its political relevance. The Galwan Valley clash, which occurred in 2020, remains a defining moment in India-China relations. The cinematic retelling of this event, with Salman in the lead, is expected to strike a chord with nationalistic audiences.

The movie will reportedly explore both the strategic elements of the battle and the personal sacrifices of the soldiers, making it more than just a typical action film. With strong character arcs and real-life heroism, this project may shape up to be one of Salman Khan’s most impactful roles in recent years.

Kabir Khan’s Babbar Sher: Still on the Table

Despite Salman leaning toward the war film, Babbar Sher hasn’t been completely ruled out. Sources suggest that Kabir Khan and Salman Khan are still in touch, discussing timelines and creative direction. While Kabir has been cautious about jumping into a sequel, he remains excited about Babbar Sher and is reportedly fine-tuning the script to align with Salman’s persona and fan expectations.

Babbar Sher, if finalized, is expected to be a gritty action drama with a politically nuanced undertone, typical of Kabir Khan’s directorial style seen in films like Phantom and Kabul Express.

Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2: Will It Happen?

Fans have been waiting eagerly for an official announcement of Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, especially after the first film became a cultural phenomenon. With its themes of humanity, innocence, and cross-border love, the film touched hearts across the globe.

While the story for the sequel reportedly continues Munni’s journey, and Salman is ready to reprise his role as Pavan, the project can only move forward once Kabir Khan agrees to direct—or another capable director steps in.

Why Salman Khan Hasn’t Signed Any Project Yet

In recent months, several top directors—including Apoorva Lakhia, Siddharth Anand, Ali Abbas Zafar, Sooraj Barjatya, and Kabir Khan—have approached Salman with various scripts. However, Salman has been cautious in selecting his next project, ensuring it aligns with both his image and audience expectations.

Insiders say that Salman wants his next release to be both commercially viable and emotionally powerful, especially after his recent successes and failures. The Galwan Valley film, with its blend of nationalism, real-life drama, and action, seems to check all those boxes.

What Makes the Galwan Project Unique for Salman?

1. Real-Life Inspiration: Based on the 2020 Indo-China faceoff, this film brings a true story of valor to the silver screen.

2. Emotionally Charged Script: Focuses not just on the battlefield but also on the inner strength of soldiers.

3. Powerful Role: Salman as an Indian Army officer could showcase his range beyond masala entertainers.

4. High Production Value: To be co-produced by Salman, ensuring full creative involvement.

Current Status: What’s Confirmed?

• Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2: Script ready, waiting on Kabir Khan’s decision.

• Babbar Sher: Script pitched by Kabir Khan; Salman is interested but has not committed.

• Galwan War Film: Salman has shown clear interest; likely to start filming by August–September 2025.

Salman Khan is at a career juncture where each film matters not just in box office terms but in legacy. While fans may want Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, and Kabir Khan is rooting for Babbar Sher, it is the Galwan Valley war drama that appears to be the frontrunner for now.

The project has the emotional depth, patriotic flavor, and action-packed scope that suits Salman’s current trajectory. Whichever film Salman finalizes, one thing is clear: he’s in no rush and wants his next to make a national impact.