Colonel Santosh Babu: The Real Hero Portrayed by Salman Khan in Battle of Galwan

In the annals of modern Indian military history, few figures embody courage and leadership as profoundly as Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu. As the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, he played a pivotal role in the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, a tense border confrontation between Indian and Chinese forces in Eastern Ladakh. His posthumous recognition with the Maha Vir Chakra underscores his extraordinary valor during a violent encounter that tested the resolve of India's armed forces. This real-life hero's story has now captured the attention of Bollywood, with Salman Khan set to portray him in the upcoming film Battle of Galwan, directed by Apoorva Lakhia. The film's teaser, released on December 27, 2025—coinciding with Khan's 60th birthday—has generated significant interest, presenting Khan in a powerful soldier's avatar that pays tribute to Colonel Babu's legacy. This article delves into the life, career, and sacrifice of Colonel Santosh Babu, while exploring how his narrative is being brought to the screen.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 13, 1983, in Suryapet, Telangana, India, Bikkumalla Santosh Babu grew up in a modest family environment that instilled values of discipline and patriotism. His father, Bikkumalla Upender, served as a bank official, while his mother, Manjula, managed the household. From an early age, Santosh exhibited a keen interest in academics and extracurricular activities, excelling in sports and leadership roles during his schooling. He pursued his education at Sainik School in Korukonda, Andhra Pradesh, a prestigious institution known for grooming future military officers. This foundation prepared him for a career in the armed forces, where he demonstrated exceptional aptitude.

Santosh's academic journey culminated in his selection for the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, Pune. He graduated from the NDA and subsequently trained at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, where he honed his skills in strategy, combat, and command. His early life reflected a blend of intellectual rigor and physical resilience, qualities that would define his military service.

Military Career

Commissioned into the Indian Army's 16 Bihar Regiment on June 12, 2004, with service number IC-64405Y, Colonel Santosh Babu embarked on a distinguished career spanning over 16 years. His initial postings included challenging assignments in Jammu and Kashmir, where he gained experience in counter-insurgency operations. He later served as an instructor at the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, imparting knowledge to aspiring officers on tactical warfare and leadership.

Rising through the ranks, Colonel Babu assumed command of the 16 Bihar Regiment in 2019. His leadership style was characterized by empathy, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to his troops. By 2020, under Operation Snow Leopard—a military deployment aimed at securing India's borders amid escalating tensions with China—he was stationed in the Galwan Valley, a remote and harsh terrain at over 14,000 feet above sea level. This posting placed him at the forefront of a critical geopolitical flashpoint.

The Galwan Valley Clash

The Galwan Valley skirmish unfolded on the night of June 15, 2020, amid efforts to de-escalate tensions following a series of border standoffs between India and China. Both nations had agreed to withdraw troops and dismantle temporary structures in the area as part of a disengagement process. However, Chinese forces violated the agreement, leading to a violent confrontation.

Colonel Babu, leading a patrol to verify the withdrawal, encountered a large contingent of Chinese soldiers armed with makeshift weapons such as clubs studded with nails, stones, and barbed wire. The clash escalated into hand-to-hand combat in the freezing temperatures and rugged terrain near the Galwan River. Despite being outnumbered, Indian troops under Colonel Babu's command fought fiercely to prevent the Chinese from advancing further into Indian territory.

Heroic Actions and Sacrifice

During the intense melee, Colonel Babu demonstrated exemplary bravery. He led from the front, motivating his soldiers and engaging directly in the fight. At approximately 9:00 PM, he was struck on the head by a large stone, causing severe bleeding. Undeterred, he continued to command and counterattack, even as he fell into the icy waters of the Galwan River. His actions inflicted significant casualties on the enemy and ensured that the Chinese could not establish a foothold.

Tragically, Colonel Babu succumbed to his injuries that night, along with 19 other Indian soldiers. The clash resulted in reported Chinese casualties as well, though official figures from China remain undisclosed. His sacrifice prevented a potential escalation and upheld India's territorial integrity in a region of strategic importance.

Awards and Recognition

In recognition of his gallantry, Colonel Santosh Babu was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India's second-highest wartime gallantry award, on January 26, 2021. The citation highlighted his "absolute command and control" and his role in leading a swift response that thwarted the enemy's objectives. This honor cemented his status as a national hero, inspiring countless individuals in the armed forces and beyond.

Personal Life

Beyond his military duties, Colonel Babu was a devoted family man. He was married to Santoshi, a homemaker, and the couple had two children: a son, Anirudh, and a daughter, Abhigna. His family resided in Delhi at the time of his deployment. Colleagues and family described him as approachable, humorous, and deeply caring, often prioritizing the welfare of his troops as if they were his own kin. His untimely death at the age of 37 left a profound void, but his family's resilience in honoring his memory has been widely admired.

Legacy and the Movie Portrayal

Colonel Santosh Babu's legacy endures as a symbol of selfless service and patriotism. Memorials and tributes, including named institutions and roads in his hometown, commemorate his contributions. His story has also influenced discussions on border security and military preparedness in India.

The film Battle of Galwan, slated for release in 2026, brings this narrative to a broader audience. Salman Khan's portrayal of Colonel Babu captures the essence of a 37-year-old officer's determination and leadership in the Himalayas' unforgiving landscape. Co-starring Chitrangada Singh, the movie—produced under a banner emphasizing patriotic themes—aims to depict the events with historical accuracy while highlighting the human elements of sacrifice and camaraderie. The teaser's tagline, "At 15,000 feet… courage roared where silence ruled," encapsulates the high-altitude drama and has sparked debates on casting, given Khan's age relative to the real colonel's. Nonetheless, it serves as a cinematic homage, ensuring that Colonel Babu's heroism reaches generations unfamiliar with the Galwan events.

Conclusion

Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu's life and sacrifice exemplify the highest ideals of military service: duty, honor, and courage in the face of adversity. As Salman Khan steps into his role in Battle of Galwan, the film not only immortalizes this real hero but also reminds us of the enduring cost of safeguarding national borders. His story continues to inspire, reinforcing the principle that true heroism lies in quiet resolve and selfless action.