In a major reshuffle of the 2026 release calendar, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-anticipated film Love and War has been delayed beyond Eid 2026. The film, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, was originally set to release alongside Yash’s Toxic during the festive weekend. However, industry insiders have now confirmed that Love and War will arrive only in the second half of 2026, thus averting a high-profile box-office clash.
Bhansali’s film running behind schedule
According to sources close to the production, Love and War is currently running about 40 days behind schedule, with nearly 75 days of shooting still pending. The film’s extensive production scale and Bhansali’s trademark attention to detail have reportedly contributed to the delay.
“It’s a blessing in disguise, as it made no sense for two pan-Indian films to clash on the same date,” a source told Bollywood Hungama. “Love and War is running behind schedule, and Bhansali has now requested Ranbir, Alia, and Vicky to allot bulk dates till summer 2026 to complete the shoot.”
While an exact release window has not been finalised, the earliest the film is expected to hit cinemas is June 2026, with an official announcement likely in the coming months.
Toxic on track for March 2026
Meanwhile, Yash and the producers of Toxic have reconfirmed that their “fairy tale for adults” will release as planned in March 2026, coinciding with the Eid period. The film, directed by Geetu Mohandas, continues to generate buzz for its ambitious storytelling and international-scale production.
“Toxic is on schedule, and the makers are super confident of their product,” said a source close to the production. “It’s one of those rare Indian films to be shot simultaneously in Kannada and English, which gives it a truly global appeal.”
Yash, best known for his record-breaking KGF franchise, has been working on Toxic since early 2024. The film reportedly combines elements of action, romance, and fantasy, with a strong emotional core. Given its high production values and cross-cultural narrative, trade experts believe Toxic could emerge as one of the biggest releases of 2026.
No clash between Love and War and Toxic
With Love and War stepping aside, the anticipated box-office battle between Ranbir Kapoor and Yash has now been averted — at least for now. The development also delays the duo’s off-screen rivalry, which was expected to precede their on-screen face-off in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, another pan-India project currently in production.
Trade analysts say the decision to postpone Love and War is strategically sound. “Bhansali is known for grandeur and perfection, and he wouldn’t want to rush a film that brings together three of the biggest names in the country,” said a Mumbai-based distributor. “Avoiding a clash with Toxic also ensures both films get a clean run at the box office.”
Bhansali’s most ambitious project yet
Love and War marks Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s return to the big screen after Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022). Described as an epic romantic drama set against the backdrop of conflict, the film brings together Bhansali and Ranbir Kapoor after nearly 17 years — their last collaboration being Saawariya (2007).
The film also pairs Kapoor with his real-life partner Alia Bhatt for the second time after Brahmāstra (2022). Vicky Kaushal’s inclusion further raises expectations, making Love and War one of the most awaited films in recent memory.
Despite the delay, Bhansali’s production house remains optimistic. Insiders suggest the filmmaker is prioritising authenticity and visual scale over speed. “He wants every frame to live up to his creative standards,” said a crew member. “The team believes the final product will be worth the wait.”
Industry outlook
The absence of a clash between Love and War and Toxic has been welcomed by exhibitors and distributors, who were concerned about splitting audience attention during a major holiday weekend. With Toxic now enjoying a solo Eid 2026 release, and Love and War expected to arrive later, both films could maximise their box-office potential.
For fans, the change means a longer wait for Bhansali’s magnum opus — but also a clearer theatrical calendar that allows each big release to shine on its own.