Bhansali brings Italy to Mumbai for Love & War
Sanjay Leela Bhansali has decided to recreate a slice of Italy in Mumbai for his multi-starrer Love & War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. The director scrapped a planned international schedule and built an opulent Italian set near Royal Palms in Goregaon to keep tight creative control and avoid logistical delays.
Why the Italy plan changed
Bhansali initially planned a 45-day shoot in Italy, but the itinerary became too complex and time-consuming. To preserve the film’s grandeur without the complications of an overseas schedule, production recreated the Italy sequences on a lavish Mumbai set. The director reportedly completed a focused 10-day stint with his lead actors just before Diwali.
Security and secrecy after leaks
After a few set pictures of Alia surfaced online, Bhansali tightened security. The team has put strict measures in place to stop further leaks, with venue details now being shared with the unit only shortly before shooting. The upcoming stretch is crucial — it includes portions of the film’s climax.
Final schedule and release buzz
- The unit is on a short break and will return soon for a final 20-day schedule, including the climax.
- Filming is expected to wrap by mid-December.
- Love & War is slated for a March 2026 release, with industry chatter about a possible March 19 opening that could clash with Yash’s Toxic.
There are also whispers that Orry has a role and that Deepika Padukone may make a cameo, adding to the film’s starry appeal. With Bhansali’s signature scale and attention to detail, fans can expect a dramatic, visually rich outing when Love & War finally arrives.
