sanjay leela bhansali
|

Sanjay Leela Bhansali skips the usual teaser for ‘Love & War’s grand first look

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for doing things his own way, and his next big move looks set to prove that once again. According to an exclusive Bollywood Hungama report, Love & War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, will not be introduced through a standard teaser or motion poster like most big-ticket films usually are.

An industry source revealed that Bhansali himself is closely involved in shaping a special promotional asset meant to give audiences their very first look into the film’s world. The plan is to unveil this sometime in August, marking the official start of the film’s marketing rollout.

“The makers are taking a rather unconventional route with Love & War. Instead of a standard promotional launch, they are developing a special asset that will serve as the audience’s first introduction to the film,” the source shared, adding that the project is being built as an immersive experience, with Bhansali working alongside his core creative team to bring it to life.

This approach lines up with how Bhansali typically works, treating every visual detail as something meant to stir emotion and pull viewers straight into his cinematic world. Rather than going the usual route with character posters or a short teaser, he’s reportedly aiming to build something that reflects the scale, tone and emotional depth of Love & War even before the full promotional push kicks in.

The asset is said to be in its final stages of development, with Bhansali overseeing every part of the creative process personally. If things stay on schedule, audiences should get their first real glimpse of the film sometime in August, offering an early sense of just how ambitious this project really is.

While the exact format is still being kept under wraps, sources suggest it is designed to feel far bigger than a typical promo. The goal, apparently, is to create something closer to an event, instantly pulling viewers into Bhansali’s world and setting the tone for what’s shaping up to be one of Hindi cinema’s most-watched upcoming releases.

Love & War brings Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal together on screen for the first time under Bhansali’s direction, making it one of the most anticipated films in recent memory. Ever since it was announced, the project has kept fans and industry watchers hooked on every update. If everything goes as planned, this first look could end up being remembered as a genuine promotional milestone, one that fits perfectly with Bhansali’s long-held belief that storytelling starts well before the audience takes their seat in the theatre.

Similar Posts

  • |

    7.4-magnitude quake hits Colombia, killing 26

    A powerful earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, leaving at least 26 people dead and causing widespread damage across several cities. The United States Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at magnitude 7.4. It struck at around 7:34am local time, with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region at a depth of about 107 kilometres. The tremor was felt across much of Colombia and in neighbouring Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. Authorities warned residents to remain alert as aftershocks were recorded following the main earthquake. Local officials reported deaths in several parts of the country. Three children were among those killed in Calima El Darién after a wall collapsed. Other fatalities were reported in Zarzal, Buenaventura, Manizales and Pereira. Pereira officials reported 18 deaths, while authorities in Manizales confirmed additional fatalities. Rescue teams continued assessing the situation as reports of casualties and damage were updated. Cali was among the worst-affected cities. Mayor Alejandro Eder said at least 20 buildings had collapsed, with people reportedly trapped under the rubble. He requested additional rescue personnel from Bogotá and Medellín to assist emergency teams. Residents were urged to leave buildings if they noticed major cracks or believed the structures were unsafe. Serious damage was also reported in Quibdó, the capital of Chocó. Regional authorities said several people were injured and buildings were damaged. Rescue workers were deployed to assess affected areas and search for people who may be trapped. Manizales also suffered significant structural damage. Images and videos showed part of the Cathedral Basilica’s clocktower leaning dangerously. A five-storey building was also seen collapsing as people evacuated nearby areas. The earthquake caused panic in Bogotá, where residents rushed out of homes and workplaces. Emergency sirens sounded across parts of the capital. People gathered in streets as buildings and traffic lights shook during the tremor. Bogotá authorities initially reported cracks in some structures but said there was no immediate indication of major infrastructure damage. The earthquake also disrupted air travel. Colombia’s civil aviation authority suspended operations at several airports after damage was reported at facilities in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura. Operations at Popayán airport were also suspended because of volcanic ash. Officials said the Colombian Geological Service recorded two aftershocks, measuring 2.8 and 4.8. The stronger aftershock was widely felt. Colombian authorities described the earthquake as the strongest recorded in the country in roughly a decade. Emergency agencies continued damage assessments while rescue operations remained underway. President Abelardo De La Espriella said he had taken direct charge of the emergency response. He ordered the creation of a unified command centre to coordinate rescue and relief efforts and said he would travel to Pereira to monitor the situation. The disaster comes less than two months after powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24. Those quakes killed more than 6,100 people and caused extensive destruction.

  • | |

    Balochistan suspends nitrogen fertilizer movement …

    QUETTA: The Balochistan government has imposed a ban on the transportation of nitrogen-based fertilizers across the province for 15 days over concerns that such materials could be misused for sabotage and terrorist activities. According to an official notification issued by the Directorate General of Agriculture Balochistan, the decision was taken in view of the prevailing law and order situation and to ensure the safety of lives and property across the province. The order states that the sale, purchase, supply and distribution of nitrogen-based fertilizers have been suspended with immediate effect. Authorities said the restriction aims to prevent the possible use of these fertilizers in the manufacture of explosive materials and other unlawful activities. The banned products include urea, calcium ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate and potassium nitrate. Officials said the restrictions will remain in force until further orders. The notification also directs all dealers, distributors and suppliers to maintain a complete record and inventory of their existing fertilizer stocks. Authorities warned that compliance with the order would be closely monitored and that legal action could be taken against those found violating the restrictions. The provincial government said the temporary measure is part of broader efforts to strengthen security and prevent the misuse of materials that could pose a threat to public safety.

  • |

    Amine Gouiri double powers Marseille to 4-0 win over Strasbourg

    MARSEILLE: Amine Gouiri made a flying start to Marseille’s new Ligue 1 campaign, scoring twice in the second half as his side swept aside Strasbourg 4-0 on Friday in the opening match of the French top-flight season. The Algeria international was at the heart of Marseille’s attacking display, breaking the deadlock shortly after half-time before converting a penalty to put the hosts firmly in control. Gouiri’s performance gave Marseille exactly the kind of opening they wanted in front of their home supporters, while also extending their remarkable unbeaten league run against Strasbourg, which now stretches back to 1997. “It’s a joy,” Gouiri told Ligue 1+, reflecting on a perfect start. “We really wanted to start well in front of our supporters, and it’s job done.” Marseille had to wait until the second half to unlock the visitors’ defence. Gouiri struck just a minute after the restart, meeting the ball with a low first-time finish that finally gave the hosts the breakthrough. Strasbourg’s hopes of recovering quickly suffered another blow shortly before the hour mark when Samir El Mourabet was shown a red card for violent conduct after kicking Marseille midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. With Strasbourg down to 10 men, Marseille seized control. Gouiri stepped up to take the resulting penalty and made no mistake, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to complete his brace and double Marseille’s advantage. The hosts continued to push forward and eventually turned a comfortable victory into a statement result. Young substitute Keyliane Abdallah added a third before Hojbjerg put the finishing touch on the night, scoring late to complete the 4-0 rout. For coach Bruno Genesio, the result provides an ideal beginning despite Marseille’s limited activity in the summer transfer market. The manager has acknowledged that the club must reduce its wage bill before it can make major additions to the squad. “We have to drop our salary spend,” Genesio said. “Until that’s done, we won’t be able to recruit.” Gouiri, who joined Marseille from Rennes in January 2025, will be encouraged by his explosive start. He also scored once for Algeria during four matches at this year’s World Cup. The opening weekend continues on Saturday, with last season’s runners-up Lens hosting Auxerre, while newly promoted Le Mans face Brest in their first top-flight match since 2010. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain begin their title defence away to Rennes on Sunday as they chase a record-extending 14th Ligue 1 crown.

  • | |

    Trump returns to White House correspondents’ din…

    United States President Donald Trump will address the White House Correspondents’ Association at a rescheduled gala on Friday, nearly three months after a shooting outside the Washington Hilton forced the cancellation of the April event. The black-tie dinner, now relocated to the Waldorf Astoria hotel, will take place under heightened security. Secret Service Director Sean Curran said an advance team had implemented a comprehensive plan, acknowledging the risk of hostile actors but stressing that the agency was treating the venue with the same rigor as any presidential site. The April 25 incident occurred as Trump and his cabinet were arriving. A man armed with a shotgun attempted to breach a security checkpoint and opened fire. Secret Service officer Victor Gonzales, credited with stopping the attack, was shot but survived thanks to his protective vest. Gonzales will be honored at Friday’s dinner, along with Hilton staff who assisted guests during the chaos. The suspect, Cole Allen, has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempted assassination of the president. Trump has argued the attack underscored the need for a $400 million ballroom under construction at the White House, saying future events held there would enhance presidential security. The correspondents’ dinner, a century-old Washington tradition, raises funds for journalism scholarships and celebrates the First Amendment. Trump is scheduled to deliver remarks, with entertainment provided by mentalist Oz Pearlman. This year’s event carries added weight. Trump has frequently clashed with the press, denouncing coverage as “fake news,” restricting access for outlets such as the Associated Press, and threatening to revoke broadcast licenses. Yet he has also given reporters more direct access than recent presidents, often taking questions in unscripted settings. Several journalism organizations have urged the WHCA to use the dinner to condemn what they describe as Trump’s attacks on press freedom. WHCA President Weijia Jiang said the gala would send a clear message: “Violence has no place in American life and a free press will not be intimidated into silence.”

  • | |

    Nicki Minaj rejects claims in hotel bill dispute

    Nicki Minaj has responded through her legal team after a business dispute with production company 24/7 Productions intensified in court. The rapper’s lawyers have strongly rejected claims made by the company, arguing that the lawsuit unfairly targets her personally and attempts to damage her reputation instead of focusing on the contractual issues at the centre of the case. The latest development comes after 24/7 Productions described Minaj as a “spoiled and entitled” rap star in court filings related to an ongoing payment dispute. Her lawyers argue that such language has no relevance to the legal issues and was included solely to create a negative public image of the Grammy-nominated artist. According to Minaj’s legal team, the remarks were designed to distract attention from the actual contractual disagreement. The dispute centres on production work carried out during Minaj’s Jingle Ball performances and the Pink Friday 2 launch events held in New York in 2023. 24/7 Productions claims it covered a wide range of event-related expenses, including hotel accommodation, staffing, security services and production costs. The company alleges that it has not yet received full payment for those services and has therefore taken legal action to recover the outstanding amount. Minaj’s lawyers, however, dispute those claims and insist that the hotel accommodation and related expenses were already included in the agreed budget for an artist of her stature. They argue that such costs should not be portrayed as unusual or excessive. Her legal team also contends that the production company is attempting to sensationalise the case by focusing on her celebrity lifestyle rather than the actual business agreement between the parties. Another key argument presented by Minaj’s lawyers concerns the identity of the contracting party. They maintain that the agreement was entered into with Pink Friday Productions LLC, not with Nicki Minaj in her personal capacity. As a result, they argue that the rapper herself should not be held personally responsible for any financial obligations arising from the company’s agreements. The legal team has also insisted that the disputed payments have already been made, directly challenging the production company’s allegations that it remains unpaid. The case is scheduled to return to court on August 3, when a judge will consider Minaj’s request to have her name removed from the lawsuit. The hearing is expected to focus on whether the claims should proceed against the artist personally or remain directed at Pink Friday Productions LLC instead. For now, both sides remain firmly committed to their opposing positions. While 24/7 Productions continues to pursue payment through the courts, Nicki Minaj’s legal representatives insist that the company has mischaracterised both the facts of the dispute and the rapper’s role in the contractual arrangement. The outcome of the upcoming court hearing will likely determine how the case proceeds in the months ahead.

  • | |

    Iran says Oman deal nears completion but insists U…

    Iran said on Sunday that a deal with Oman establishing new shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz has entered its final stages, though Tehran maintained the critical waterway will remain closed until Washington satisfies a broader set of conditions tied to the ongoing standoff between the two countries. A US official told Reuters on Friday that an agreement between Iran and Oman appeared close and could soon lead to the reopening of the strait, a passage that carried roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments before Iran shut it down in response to American and Israeli military strikes earlier this year. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed on Sunday that negotiations over the strait, which sits between Iran and Oman, had reached their final stages. However, he repeated comments made a day earlier stressing that the waterway would not reopen unless additional conditions set by Tehran were met first. Iran’s Mehr news agency quoted Araqchi as saying the emerging agreement would establish the new shipping lanes to be used once the United States fulfils those conditions and the strait formally reopens. Araqchi said Iran and the United States are not currently engaged in direct talks and that Tehran has no plans to begin them as long as Washington continues to breach an interim agreement the two countries signed in June. He added that messages between the two sides are being exchanged through intermediaries rather than direct contact. Iran demands compensation and sanctions relief The United States launched air strikes against Iran in late February, saying the campaign aimed to prevent the Islamic Republic from acquiring nuclear weapons or using missiles and regional proxy forces to threaten the wider Middle East. Washington and Tehran agreed to a ceasefire in June, but the United States reimposed a blockade on Iranian shipping in the Gulf in July, a move Iran characterised as a violation of a truce that had already shown signs of collapse. A US official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said the blockade on Iranian ports would lift once a deal restoring unimpeded commercial shipping is formally announced. The official added that any American actions would remain directly tied to Iran fulfilling its own commitments under the emerging agreement, pointing to a carefully sequenced approach that both sides appear to be navigating cautiously. The arrangement under discussion appeared, according to sources who previously spoke to Reuters, to grant Tehran a degree of control over vessels entering the Gulf through the strait, an arrangement that shipping industry sources have said would be difficult to implement in practice. The precise current status of the agreement remained unclear on Sunday, and Iran’s latest statements suggested several additional factors could still complicate its finalisation. Araqchi said the strait’s reopening would depend in part on the United States providing compensation to Iran for what Tehran describes as widespread attacks on its territory and interests. Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, secretary of Iran’s top national security body, outlined a broader list of demands, including an end to US threats against Iran, a halt to what Tehran calls aggression against its allies in Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Yemen and Iraq, the lifting of the shipping blockade and broader sanctions, and the release of frozen Iranian financial assets. Supreme Leader’s condition remains unclear Ultimate decision making authority in Iran rests with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared in public since an air strike killed his father and predecessor on February 28, the first day of the joint US and Israeli air campaign against Iran. State media reported on Sunday that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Khamenei in late July, and a paramilitary leader promised that footage of the supreme leader would soon be released publicly. Khamenei was reportedly injured in the same strike that killed his father, according to earlier reporting. Separately, the United Arab Emirates said on Saturday that Iran had attacked a vessel affiliated with its state oil company. Iran did not immediately respond to the allegation. The country’s powerful Revolutionary Guards have attacked commercial vessels in the past, arguing that ships transiting the strait without coordinating their passage with Iranian authorities are not protected from such action. Houthi attacks widen regional shipping crisis Iran’s strikes on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz have coincided with intensified attacks from its Yemen based allies, the Houthis, who have targeted vessels at a separate chokepoint located between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden on the opposite side of the Arabian Peninsula. The Houthis declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea last month, framing the move as retaliation for what they described as a Saudi imposed siege in Yemen, an accusation the Saudi government has firmly denied. Riyadh continues to back Yemen’s internationally recognised government in the country’s ongoing conflict. The group claimed responsibility for an attack on Saudi Aramco’s Jazan refinery on Sunday, coming just two days after the kingdom signed a defence pact with fellow Sunni Muslim majority nations Turkey and Pakistan amid growing concern over regional instability stemming from the US and Israeli military campaign against Shiite led Iran. Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry confirmed that a fire broke out at the refinery following the attack but was later extinguished without causing any injuries, and that authorities were continuing to manage the aftermath of the incident. The ministry did not specify a cause for the blaze. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said on social media platform X that the group used a drone to strike the facility. The Houthis have targeted Aramco sites in Jazan before, a refinery that processes approximately 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily in southwestern Saudi Arabia. It remains unclear whether or to what extent Pakistan or Turkey would participate in any Saudi response to the latest attack. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the newly formed alliance between the three countries was not directed against Iran or any other nation, describing it instead as a general commitment to

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *