For the first time since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) which filmed its iconic Europe-set sequence in Budapest, Hungary, standing in for Italy, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is taking his canvas abroad again. That film marked the last time Bhansali ventured overseas for his expansive, visually driven storytelling.
A close source revealed to Bollywood Hungama, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for making grand and visually spectacular films. Yet, he hasn’t gone abroad for the same for his films like Devdas (2002), Black (2005), Saawariya (2007), Guzaarish (2010), Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram‑leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015), Padmaavat (2018) and Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022). Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1998) was the last film for which he travelled abroad, to Hungary (depicted in the film as Italy), to shoot a crucial sequence of the second half.”
Rome Recce Signals European Shoot of Love & War
The same insider added, “But for Love & War, there’s a requirement of a foreign location. Hence, the filmmaker travelled to Rome, Italy, for a recce earlier this month. The film is expected to be shot in the Italian capital and maybe, a few more places in Europe, later this year.”
Complementing this, there are reports that after wrapping up a 15‑day schedule in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh chosen for its authentic British‑era army base backdrop, the team plans to move to Europe, specifically Italy, in October and aim to complete filming before the end of 2025.
Love & War Production: 100 Days Done, 90 to Go
Bhansali’s scale is evident: about 100 days of shooting have already been completed as of July, with 90 more days left to go. Production has included emotionally charged night shoots featuring Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor at Film City’s Joker Maidaan, as well as a much‑talked‑about face‑off between Ranbir and Vicky Kaushal, billed as “one of the biggest sequences ever mounted in Indian cinema”.
Ranbir, Alia Reunite with Bhansali
The film marks a grand reunion: Bhansali reteams with Ranbir Kapoor after nearly 18 years since Saawariya, and with Alia Bhatt following Gangubai Kathiawadi. It also features Vicky Kaushal in his first collaboration with Bhansali.
Meanwhile, speculation around Priyanka Chopra’s potential involvement in a dance sequence continues to swirl, though nothing has been confirmed.
(Also read: Sanjay Leela Bhansali To Reveal First Look Of Love & War On Ranbir Kapoor’s Birthday)
Bhansali’s return to an international setting signals a new level of visual ambition and global storytelling. With its sweeping locations, emotionally intense sequences, and powerhouse ensemble, Love & War could well redefine period filmmaking in India. Love & War is scheduled to be released on March 20, 2026, on Ramzan Eid.
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