Love & War is an upcoming Bollywood epic romantic drama directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal in lead roles. The film explores a grand love story set against themes of passion, conflict, and sacrifice, blending intense romance with emotional depth. Scheduled for a 2026 theatrical release, the project is currently in post-production following extended shooting schedules.
What Is the Love & War Movie About?
Love & War by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is introduced as an epic, larger-than-life romance between a man and woman whose love story transcends time and borders, but also the difference between powerful passion versus power itself – so they say. Though the official storyline is being kept tightly under wraps, initial reports point towards a tragic yet passionate love story — all of which are the trademark themes that populate Bhansali’s Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat and Gangubai Kathiawadi.
The story is said to combine historical drama with modern emotional depth, following love’s resilience during wartime, literal and metaphorical. Viewers will be treated to lavish visuals, razor-sharp dialogues and high-stakes emotional drama revolving around loyalty, heartbreak and moral conflict. The Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt combination brings in natural chemistry, while Vicky Kaushal is expected to play a multi-layered rival or nemesis.
Love & War Movie: Quick Facts & Production Details
| Feature | Details |
| Director | Sanjay Leela Bhansali |
| Star Cast | Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal |
| Genre | Epic Romance / War Drama |
| Anticipated Release Date | Late 2026 (Possible shift to early 2027) |
| Setting | 1960s India |
| Budget | Approximately ₹200+ Crore (Estimated) |
| Music Rights | Saregama (Sold for approx. ₹35 Cr) |
| OTT Partner | Netflix (Record deal of approx. ₹130 Cr) |
When is the Love & War movie release date?
It is currently in unclear release stage by January 2026. Initial announcement had made Christmas 2025 as release date. However, the date was finally locked as Eid (March 20, 2026) and then Independence Day (August 15, 2026).
But, as of a report on January 19, the film may be pushed to early 2027 (Republic Day or Valentine’s Day). This possible delay would be due to:
- Ranbir Kapoor’s Schedule: To avoid a clash with Ranbir’s other magnum opus, Ramayana: Part One (Diwali 2026), makers may space out the releases.
- Bhansali’s Perfectionism: Shooting is expected to wrap in June 2026, followed by nearly six months of editing and visual effects.
As of now, the makers have not officially confirmed a final release date, with late 2026 remaining the most likely window.
Who is the Cast of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War?
This film marks a historic reunion of major Bollywood stars under Bhansali’s vision:
- Ranbir Kapoor: Reunites with Bhansali nearly 20 years after his debut in Saawariya (2007). He reportedly plays an officer with “negative shades” and an aggressive character arc.
- Alia Bhatt: After her National Award-winning performance in Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi, she returns as the emotional anchor of the love triangle.
- Vicky Kaushal: This is Vicky’s first collaboration with the filmmaker. He plays a “subdued but opinionated” officer, acting as the “ice” to Ranbir’s “fire.”
Who Directed Love & War and What Is the Production Background?
Sanjay Leela Bhansali directs, writes, and produces Love & War under his banner, SLB Films. Known for his signature grand visuals, intricate costume design, and emotionally layered storytelling, Bhansali returns to large-scale cinema after Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) with what is expected to be one of his most ambitious romantic dramas to date.
The film is made on a huge production level, with, grand sets, a period-based feel and lot of visual effects to bring back war and war-related scenarios. As to be expected with Bhansali, the music for Padmaavat has also been rendered by the man himself – and fans are to hope there will be a mix of heart-tugging melodious numbers and an equally punchy background score that increases the gravity of the story.
Trailer and Teaser Expectations
No official trailer released yet (as of January 2026), but first looks, motion posters, or song teasers could drop soon post-filming wrap. Bhansali typically unveils stunning visuals and music early to build hype.
Conclusion
As Love & War inches closer to a 2026 release, it is poised as one of Bollywood’s most-anticipated films. Bhansali’s command of romance and spectacle—combined with Kapoor and Bhatt’s on-screen chemistry, as well as Vicky Kaushal providing a commanding screen presence will make this movie an epic that is just as beautiful to behold as it is emotionally riveting.
It could well be that in a year where there’s no shortage of epic films, this one could change the look and feel of romantic epics on celluloid. Whether you love stories of the heart, lush production design or performances that slam you in your seat, Love & War might just be unmissable. Keep an eye out for more official updates, trailers and songs — it’ll be worth the wait for this epic love-and-war saga.
FAQ
Q. When is Love & War movie releasing?
Love & War is expected to release in late 2026, though a shift to early 2027 has not been officially ruled out.
Q. Who are the lead actors in Love & War?
The film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal in the main roles, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Q. Does Sanjay Leela Bhansali direct Love & War?
Yes, Sanjay Leela Bhansali directs, writes, and produces this romantic drama under his banner.
Q. What is the story of Love & War?
It’s a grand love story exploring passion, sacrifice, and conflict — details remain under wraps, but expect Bhansali’s signature emotional and visual intensity.
Q. Has the trailer for Love & War been released?
No official trailer yet (as of January 2026); expect teasers, first looks, or songs soon after filming concludes.