Since Sanjay Leela Bhansali spoke about Love & War in a recent interview and clarified that it's not a remake of Sangam, the excitement among fans has skyrocketed. The film marks a reunion of sorts among Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal sharing the screen space with each other once again after a few years. Now, as per the latest reports, Bhansali is preparing to begin filming Love & War by the end of October. 

Production timeline and pre-production updates

The source told Mid Day that the filmmaker has pushed the start of production of the love triangle—starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal—forward from its initial November deadline. One reliable source told the tabloid that the pre-production is in full swing. Multiple rounds of tryouts are locking in the dancers. The makers chose the character actors earlier this month. Rumor has it that the film could begin shooting just in time for Diwali. At Film City's Sunil Maidan, the production design crew has started constructing complex sets.

But the main actors won't enter Bhansali's world of love and treachery until early November, following Diwali festivities. The meticulous filmmaker has set aside one and a half months for the initial timetable, and he is famous for his monumental cinematic works.

The protagonists appear prepared and have started table-reading sessions. This decision to start production earlier than planned has led many to believe that Bhansali is planning a high-budget release in 2025 rather than the original March 2026 date. However, the source cautions that discussing release dates at this stage is premature.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s inspiration and vision for Love & War

During a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Bhansali shared that after watching Sangam, he fell in love with it. Another example of Sangam is Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, where Bhansali attempted to transform Aishwarya Rai Bachchan into Vyjayanthimala. The filmmaker loves Raj Kapoor, but Love & War isn't Sangam. One can't remake a masterpiece by a great filmmaker, and how can one recreate Pakeezah, Mughal-E-Azam, or Sangam? Bhansali admires Kamal Amrohi, and Heeramandi is a tribute to Pakeezah.

Talking about Love & War, the filmmaker went on to share that he is really looking forward to this movie. Despite the passing of time, it remains a remarkable film. There are no more horses, pillars, or costumes. It is modern and unique. Bhansali is relishing the novelty of the music, and his actors are simply fantastic. Making this film will be challenging for him, but he intends to take his time and do it right.

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