The cinematic universe of Bollywood is holding its breath for the first official look at Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus, 'Love and War'. According to fresh reports, the visionary filmmaker is gearing up to finally pull back the curtain on this epic romantic saga in January 2026. The film, which brings together a powerhouse trio of Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, has been the subject of immense fan speculation since its grand announcement in January 2024.
The Grand Unveiling: What to Expect
The much-awaited first glimpse of 'Love and War' is not going to be a conventional teaser or trailer. As per industry sources, Bhansali himself is meticulously crafting this initial reveal, which is expected to be unveiled through a specially designed poster or a series of captivating stills from the film's sets. This strategic move comes in the wake of several leaked images from the shoot circulating on social media, which, while sparking curiosity, have reportedly made the perfectionist director even more determined to present his pure, unadulterated vision to the audience.
The film's narrative, described as an epic saga of passion, pride, and conflict, promises Bhansali's signature grandeur. Earlier reports have hinted at a fierce dynamic between Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal's characters, with an intense climax sequence already shot against the picturesque backdrop of Sicily. The production is nearing completion, with Alia Bhatt recently wrapping up a pivotal wedding sequence with Ranbir Kapoor in Mumbai. Her final schedule will involve shooting the climax with both male leads, after which Kapoor and Kaushal are expected to continue filming for approximately another six weeks.
Release Plans and a Transformative Experience for Vicky Kaushal
While the first look is confirmed for January 2026, the theatrical release date remains a moving target. Initially slated for March 19, 2026, the release was later postponed to August 14, 2026, as reported by Variety. An official confirmation on the final date is still awaited from the production house.
For Vicky Kaushal, 'Love and War' marks a significant career milestone as his maiden collaboration with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. In a recent conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Kaushal opened up about the profound experience, hailing Bhansali as a "master of exploring what this character or these two characters or these three characters, could do in a given circumstance." He described the process as a deeply transformative learning journey, stepping into the elaborate and demanding world of a Bhansali set for the first time. In contrast, both Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor have previously worked with the director in 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' and 'Saawariya', respectively.
The anticipation surrounding 'Love and War' is palpable. It represents not just another big-budget film, but the convergence of one of Indian cinema's most celebrated directors with three of its most bankable and talented contemporary stars. As January 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on how Bhansali chooses to introduce this grand tale of love, rivalry, and war to the world.
