24 September,2026 12:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ranbir Kapoor in Love and War (Picture via Instagram)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much-awaited Love and War has unveiled its first glimpse, and Ranbir Kapoor's striking look has already heightened anticipation around the period drama. Starring Ranbir alongside Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, the film brings together three of Bollywood's leading actors for the first time in a story helmed by Bhansali.
The makers dropped the first-look poster featuring Ranbir, offering audiences a glimpse into his character and the world Bhansali has created. Ranbir appears in a never-before-seen avatar, sporting an intense look that hints at the layered nature of his role. The poster also reflects the filmmaker's trademark attention to visual detail and grandeur.
The announcement was accompanied by a specially curated background score, adding to the dramatic mood of the first look. Music has traditionally played an important role in Bhansali's cinema, and the BGM accompanying the poster further builds curiosity around the film's soundtrack and overall musical treatment.
Sharing the poster on social media, the makers wrote, "Woh rutba, woh raub, woh junoon! Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War. See you at the movies! LoveAndWar saregama official RanbirKapoor vickykaushal09 aliaabhatt" They also confirmed that Love and War will release worldwide on January 21, 2027.
The film marks Bhansali's return to the big screen after Gangubai Kathiawadi. It also reunites him with Ranbir after their collaboration on Saawariya (2007), which marked Ranbir's acting debut. Bhansali and Alia previously worked together on Gangubai Kathiawadi, while Ranbir and Alia will share the screen again following their collaboration in Brahmastra.
For Vicky Kaushal, Love and War marks his first collaboration with Bhansali. The actor is set to share screen space with both Ranbir and Alia in the highly anticipated project.
The film's title suggests a narrative that combines romance with conflict, although the makers have kept details about the storyline and characters under wraps. The first poster, therefore, becomes an important visual cue for audiences waiting to understand the film's setting and Ranbir's role.
Love and War has been among the most closely watched Bollywood projects since its announcement, largely due to its cast and Bhansali's reputation for mounting visually elaborate dramas. The filmmaker is known for combining elaborate production design, music, costumes and emotionally driven storytelling.
The film is scheduled to release worldwide on January 21, 2027, in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. With the first look now out, attention will turn to the eventual posters and promotional material featuring Alia and Vicky, as well as the film's teaser and trailer. For now, Ranbir's intense first glimpse has offered audiences their first window into Bhansali's latest cinematic world.
