Bhansali’s ‘Love & War’ Budget Swells to ₹425 Crore as Delay Rekindles Debate on Big-Budget Timelines
The prolonged production of Love & War, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, and Vicky Kaushal, has once again drawn attention to a recurring pattern in large-scale Indian film productions: ambitious projects rarely adhere to their original timelines.
Initially announced with a 2026 release target, the film has now been pushed further, with its mounting production schedule significantly inflating costs.
According to trade estimates cited by industry publications, the budget has climbed to approximately ₹425 crore.
What was envisioned as a 120-day shoot has reportedly expanded to 175 days, with an additional 50 days now added to complete pending portions.
Sources indicate that key sequences, including three elaborate songs and large-scale war scenes, remain unfinished.
These sequences are said to require at least two more months of filming. Bhansali’s pursuit of cinematic perfection — a hallmark of his filmmaking style — is widely believed to be contributing to the extended schedule.
Industry analysts observe that such developments are not unusual in spectacle-driven cinema.
Period dramas, war backdrops, and grand musical sequences demand elaborate sets, visual precision, and multiple retakes.
In certain instances, delays stem from genuine creative or logistical challenges. However, experts caution that unchecked schedule overruns can strain budgets, investor confidence, and distribution strategies.
Interestingly, the financial structure of Love & War reflects an unconventional model. Reports suggest that the lead actors have opted for backend profit-sharing arrangements rather than upfront fees.
Bhansali is also said to be self-financing the project, a rarity in today’s corporatised film industry, where studios typically underwrite such large ventures.
The film has reportedly secured around ₹130 crore from a streaming deal with Netflix and an additional ₹70–80 crore through music and satellite rights, partially cushioning the financial risk.
The project marks Bhansali’s reunion with Alia Bhatt after the critically acclaimed Gangubai Kathiawadi and with Ranbir Kapoor nearly two decades after his debut in Saawariya.
In the past, Kapoor has openly discussed the demanding nature of Bhansali’s filmmaking process.
Reports had earlier suggested that Kapoor sought assurances regarding production timelines before signing the film, including a target wrap date in mid-2025 — a milestone that has since passed.
Meanwhile, the cast’s professional calendars continue to evolve. Kapoor is preparing for the release of Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, slated for Diwali 2026.
Bhatt awaits the release of YRF’s Alpha, while Kaushal’s upcoming slate remains under wraps.
Trade experts point out that while creative ambition often justifies extended schedules, disciplined production management remains essential.
Delays may sometimes enhance the final cinematic output, but prolonged uncertainty can escalate costs and impact release strategies.
For investors, distributors, and exhibitors alike, predictability is as valuable as artistic brilliance.
As Love & War continues its extended journey toward completion, it underscores a familiar industry lesson: in big-budget filmmaking, time is not merely a creative resource — it is also the most expensive one.
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