Salman Khan recently talked about the social media mockery which followed the trailer release of his new movie Battle of Galwan. His answer created new online speculation about his response. Social media users think his comments contained hidden references to Sunny Deol’s intense acting style in the newly released war film Border 2.

Salman, who is gearing up for the theatrical release of Battle of Galwan on April 17, was questioned about the criticism he faced for his “romantic” expression in the teaser. The actor was seen giving a measured look in a scene, which some online users jokingly labelled as out of place for a war film.

Salman explained his facial expression while responding to online criticism during his speech at an Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) match in Surat. He explained that the look he used was purposefully created to match his character, who served as a Colonel responsible for motivating and reassuring his soldiers through his performance.

“I’m a Colonel. That look reflects how a commanding officer gives confidence and courage to his team. I can also give other looks, but they wouldn’t make sense,” Salman said, adding a growl to demonstrate what he felt would be an unnecessary exaggeration.

Shortly after the clip surfaced online, Reddit users began debating whether Salman’s comments were a veiled dig at Sunny Deol’s much-talked-about shouting sequences in Border 2. One user claimed that Salman was “casually shading” what they described as over-the-top acting in the film, while others joined in with mixed opinions comparing the two actors’ suitability for military roles.

The discussion quickly drew divided reactions. While some users argued that Sunny Deol’s intense screen presence fits war dramas better, others felt Salman appeared more restrained and convincing in the Battle of Galwan teaser. The fans who rejected the rumors showed that they believed Salman used his own films and all other films as targets for his jokes which they considered to be cinematic overrated elements.

The users who defended the actor used the long-standing friendship between Salman Khan and Sunny Deol as evidence which showed that Salman would not make a public attack against his co-worker.

Apoorva Lakhia directed Battle of Galwan which tells a true story that includes Chitrangda Singh as one of its actors. The film will be distributed by Salman Khan Films and its theatrical release is set for April 17.