Love & War Postponed Beyond Eid 2026
According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Bhansali’s ambitious romantic drama has fallen behind schedule and will not make its previously planned Eid 2026 release. The report suggests that the team is considering a June 2026 release instead.
As per sources, “It’s a blessing in disguise, as it made no sense for two Pan-Indian films to clash on the same date. Love & War is running much behind its shooting schedule, and will now release in the second half of 2026. Around 75 days of shoot still remain, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali has requested Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal to allot bulk dates till Summer 2026 to wrap up the film.”
The film is reportedly about 40 days behind schedule, with production still ongoing. The earliest feasible release window appears to be mid-2026, though an official confirmation from the makers is still awaited.
“Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Leela Bhansali will take a final call on the film’s release soon and make an official announcement,” the report added.
Original Plans and Changing Timelines
Love & War was initially announced for Christmas 2025, positioning it as one of the biggest festive releases of the year. However, production delays shifted that timeline, with industry buzz earlier this year suggesting a March 20, 2026 release.
Now, with Yash’s Toxic locking in its release date close to Eid 2026, Bhansali’s team appears to have decided to delay the film further to ensure both projects enjoy a clear box-office window.
Yash’s Toxic Locks March 19, 2026 Release
Meanwhile, the makers of Yash’s Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-ups reaffirmed that the film will arrive in theatres worldwide on March 19, 2026.
“140 days to go… His Untamed Presence is Your Existential Crisis. Toxic The Movie releases worldwide on 19-03-2026,” read a post by KVN Productions on social media, confirming the official date.
The project, directed by Geetu Mohandas, is a period gangster drama set in Goa during a bygone era. Beneath its vibrant, sunlit beaches and thriving culture lies a dangerous drug cartel that rules from the shadows.
A Massive Pan-India Ensemble
Toxic features an impressive ensemble cast alongside Yash, including Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, Akshay Oberoi, and Sudev Nair. The film is jointly produced by KVN Productions and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.
Shot in Kannada and English, it will be dubbed in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam, ensuring a wide Pan-India release.
Why the Delay Might Benefit Love & War
While delays often dampen excitement, this particular decision could actually help Love & War. Given that both films are massive, star-driven Pan-India releases, a direct clash could have divided audiences and affected box-office performance.
By postponing, Bhansali ensures his film receives the exclusive spotlight it deserves. Moreover, additional production time may allow the director — known for his opulent sets and meticulous attention to detail — to perfect the visual grandeur and emotional depth that define his storytelling style.
What to Expect from Love & War
Touted as a romantic epic set against a turbulent backdrop, Love & War reunites Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt after their 2022 hit Brahmāstra. The film also marks Vicky Kaushal’s first collaboration with Bhansali, adding further intrigue to the project.
As with most Bhansali films, expectations are sky-high for its lavish production design, soaring music, and emotional storytelling. Fans eagerly await an official update from Bhansali Productions on the revised release date, which is now expected to be announced in early 2026.
Final Thoughts
While the delay might disappoint fans, it’s clear that both Love & War and Toxic are gearing up to dominate 2026. With Yash set to unleash his dark, gritty world in March and Bhansali preparing a grand romantic spectacle for later in the year, Indian cinema is poised for a spectacular year ahead.
For now, audiences can only wait — but if Bhansali’s cinematic legacy is any indication, Love & War will be well worth it.
