In an unexpected turn of events, the highly anticipated shooting schedule for Salman Khan's upcoming war drama, 'Battle of Galwan', has been altered. The initial plan to begin filming in Mumbai has been scrapped, with the production now moving directly to Ladakh. This strategic decision, reportedly made by director Apoorva Lakhia, is said to be a creative call to ensure continuity and authenticity for the film's action-heavy sequences. The production team, after preparing elaborate sets in a Bandra studio, has now begun dismantling them as they prepare for the high-altitude shoot.

Prioritizing Continuity: The Creative Rationale

The sudden change in schedule has raised eyebrows, but reports suggest it was a well-thought-out move by the film's makers. A primary concern was maintaining the visual continuity of Salman Khan's distinct look for his role as Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, the commanding officer who was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra. According to a source, a 30-day gap between the Mumbai and Ladakh schedules would have disrupted this continuity. By shooting the action sequences back-to-back in Ladakh, the filmmakers can ensure a seamless and impactful narrative.

The film, which is based on the real-life India-China military clash in the Galwan Valley, promises to be a tribute to the valour of India's armed forces. The large-scale war sequences, which are a central part of the film's storyline, are set to be filmed against the rugged, dramatic terrain of Ladakh. This decision to start with the action-heavy Ladakh schedule first is a clear indication that the team is focused on delivering a raw and realistic cinematic experience that honors the bravery of the soldiers.

From Mumbai Sets to Himalayan Heights

The production team had gone to great lengths to prepare for the Mumbai schedule, with intricate sets being constructed at Mehboob Studios. However, with the change in plans, these sets are now being taken down. The film will now kick off its principal photography in Ladakh, with the shoot scheduled to take place between August 22 and September 3. While the Mumbai schedule is indefinitely postponed, a source mentioned that a call will be taken in the film's last leg on whether a song sequence or some patchwork needs to be done in the city.

The move to Ladakh first is a logistical challenge, but it also underscores the film's commitment to its subject matter. The harsh, high-altitude environment of the region will lend a sense of realism to the battle sequences, something that could not be replicated in a studio. Salman Khan, who has reportedly undergone a massive physical transformation for the role, is set to face the challenging conditions of the Himalayas, further adding to the film's authenticity. This strategic shift in the shooting schedule is not a roadblock, but a creative decision that positions 'Battle of Galwan' to be a powerful and visually compelling tribute to the soldiers who fought on that fateful day.
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