The highly anticipated Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial, Love and War, has officially begun its shooting schedule, with the first photos of leading lady Alia Bhatt from the set already making waves online. The leaked images, shared by Zoom TV on Saturday afternoon, offer a tantalising first glimpse into the actress’s look for the period epic.
The photos show Alia channelling a retro, ’90s-inspired diva aesthetic. She is seen sporting an elegant saree, with her hair tied up in a voluminous, classic bun. Completing the distinct look is heavy, dramatic eye makeup and a prominent nose pin, immediately setting a grand, vintage tone for the film.
Love and War marks a high-profile reunion for its star cast and director. It sees Alia Bhatt working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali again following their national award-winning collaboration on Gangubai Kathiawadi. More notably, the film reunites Alia with her husband, Ranbir Kapoor, and her Raazi co-star, Vicky Kaushal, who complete the lead trio.
While the plot details are being kept tightly under wraps, reports suggest the film is a dramatic love triangle between two strong-willed army officers (Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal) and Alia’s character, set against the backdrop of a war.
Both Alia and Ranbir have previously expressed their excitement about the project. Last year, Alia told News18 Showsha that she was “more excited” to see the reunion of Bhansali and Ranbir after so many years, while also looking forward to coming together with Vicky Kaushal again.
Ranbir Kapoor, who made his debut with Bhansali’s Saawariya 17 years ago, called the film “every actor’s dream.” Speaking at an event earlier this year, he praised the filmmaker, stating, “To work with him again, I can say this with so much of clarity that I haven’t met a human being who works so hard, who understands characters, emotions, music, Indian culture, Indian value system, as much as Sanjay Leela Bhansali.”
Love and War is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on March 20, 2026.