Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor has officially confirmed that his much-anticipated film Love & War, directed by master filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has been postponed from its previously announced release window. The actor revealed that the decision was taken to avoid a major box-office clash and to give the film the breathing space it deserves.
Ranbir shared this update during an Instagram Live session hosted to celebrate the anniversary of his lifestyle brand ARKS, finally putting an end to months of speculation surrounding the film’s release timeline.
Why Love & War Has Been Delayed
Originally envisioned as a Christmas 2025 release, Love & War was later shifted to March 20, 2026. However, the March window quickly became crowded with big-ticket sequels like Dhurandhar 2 and Toxic, prompting concerns about a high-stakes box-office showdown.
According to industry insiders, the makers felt that such a clash could dilute the film’s theatrical impact. Addressing this directly, Ranbir confirmed that the team mutually agreed to move the release to a later date, prioritising a cleaner run at the box office over rushing into competition.
Release After Ramayana Part 1 Confirmed
During the live interaction, Ranbir revealed a key detail — Love & War will now release after his other ambitious project, Ramayana Part 1, which is slated for an October 2026 theatrical debut.
With this confirmation, it is now widely believed that Love & War is eyeing a late 2026 release, possibly December, although the makers have not officially locked a date yet.
A source close to the project clarified that despite rumours of a 2027 delay, the film remains firmly on track for a 2026 release.
Avoiding a Box-Office Battle
The strategic shift appears to be a calculated move rather than a creative setback. March 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive periods in recent years, with multiple franchise films targeting the same weekend.
By moving Love & War away from that congested slot, the makers hope to ensure:
- Stronger opening collections
- Sustained word-of-mouth momentum
- Better screen availability nationwide
For a Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial — known for scale, emotion, and repeat viewing value — breathing room at the box office is crucial.
A Power-Packed Cast Raises Expectations
Love & War brings together an exceptional cast featuring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal alongside Ranbir Kapoor. The film marks another collaboration between Bhansali and Alia Bhatt after Gangubai Kathiawadi, while Ranbir reunites with Bhansali after Saawariya.
Though plot details remain tightly guarded, the title and casting suggest a sweeping romantic drama layered with emotional conflict — a genre Bhansali is synonymous with.
What This Means for Ranbir Kapoor’s Line-Up
With Ramayana Part 1 arriving first, Ranbir Kapoor’s 2026 slate is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious phases of his career. The mythological epic is expected to be a massive pan-India release, while Love & War will cater to audiences drawn to grand romance and character-driven storytelling.
Spacing out these releases also ensures that both films receive focused promotional campaigns without overshadowing one another.
Industry Reaction and Fan Expectations
Fans have largely welcomed the decision, noting that Bhansali’s films often benefit from uncluttered release windows. Social media reactions suggest that audiences are willing to wait, especially given the director’s reputation for delivering visually rich and emotionally intense cinema.
Trade analysts also believe that a December 2026 release could work strongly in the film’s favour, positioning it as a year-end event film.
Jay-Ho Updates
The postponement of Love & War is not a setback but a strategic recalibration. With Ranbir Kapoor confirming the shift, and the film now set to release after Ramayana Part 1, expectations remain sky-high for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s next cinematic spectacle.
As things stand, Love & War is firmly locked for late 2026, and with its star cast, acclaimed director, and grand romantic canvas, it continues to be one of Bollywood’s most awaited films — just arriving a little later than first planned.
