Sanjay Leela Bhansali has added another intriguing layer to the anticipation around Love & War with the unveiling of Alia Bhatt’s first official look from the highly awaited period drama. After introducing Ranbir Kapoor through an intense poster, Bhansali Productions has now shifted the spotlight to Alia, revealing her character in a glamorous and theatrical avatar. The film, which also stars Vicky Kaushal, is scheduled to arrive in cinemas worldwide on January 21, 2027.
The newly unveiled poster presents Alia in a striking wine-red sequinned outfit featuring a cropped blouse and flowing skirt, complemented by dramatic feathers and an elaborate stage-like backdrop. Seated against red curtains and sparkling lights, the actress appears ready for a dazzling performance. The styling gives her character a distinctly cabaret-inspired appearance, immediately raising curiosity about the role she plays in Bhansali’s ambitious period drama.
Bhansali Productions accompanied the reveal with the line, “Sitaare toh hazaar, par chamak iski hai,” celebrating Alia’s standout presence in the new poster. The theatrical styling and glamorous presentation have also evoked memories of the classic cabaret era of Hindi cinema, particularly the iconic performances associated with legendary actress and dancer Helen during the 1960s and 70s. However, the poster itself leaves the details of Alia’s character and her connection to the film’s larger story under wraps.
The latest reveal follows Ranbir Kapoor’s intense first look, which showed the actor in a battle-worn avatar and immediately sparked curiosity about his character. With the makers now unveiling Alia’s look, the promotional campaign for Love & War appears to be gradually introducing the central characters while keeping the larger narrative a mystery. Vicky Kaushal completes the film’s principal trio, making the project one of the most anticipated collaborations between the three actors.
Love & War brings Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt together once again under Bhansali’s direction, following their collaboration on Gangubai Kathiawadi, while Ranbir reunites with the filmmaker nearly two decades after Saawariya. Written and directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film is being mounted on a large scale, with its period setting, romance, conflict and elaborate visual design forming key parts of its cinematic world. Saregama is associated with the film’s music, while the project is planned for an IMAX theatrical release and a subsequent Netflix premiere.
With Alia Bhatt’s dramatic new look now unveiled, Love & War has offered audiences another tantalising glimpse into its lavish world without revealing too much about the story. The wine-red costume, feathers, stage lights and theatrical setting suggest that Alia’s character could bring a very different energy to the period drama. With Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal leading the cast, Love & War is set to hit theatres worldwide on January 21, 2027.