SLB’s Love & War triggers massive distribution storm; Dharma, Zee Studios, Pen Marudhar eye Rs 300 Crore deal

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War is already turning into one of the biggest talking points in the trade well before its theatrical release. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, the much-awaited romantic war drama has sparked intense interest among major players looking to secure its theatrical distribution rights. Sources reveal that Dharma Productions, Zee Studios and Pen Marudhar are currently among the key names in the race, with negotiations reportedly touching the ?300 crore mark.

Big battle for Love & War distribution rights

The competition around Love & War underlines the enormous commercial expectations attached to Bhansali’s next directorial venture. According to sources, Dharma Productions, Zee Studios and Pen Marudhar, the distribution arm of Pen Studios, are all vying for the film’s theatrical rights.

The discussions are said to be happening at a figure close to Rs 300 crore. With the film still several months away from its January 2027 release, such a high-value pre-release deal has caught the attention of the trade. If the negotiations culminate in a deal around the reported amount, it could give the makers a substantial head start on the film’s theatrical recovery even before audiences get to see it.

Ranbir, Alia and Vicky headline Bhansali’s ambitious drama

Love & War brings together Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in a combination that has naturally generated huge curiosity. The film marks another collaboration between Bhansali and Ranbir after Saawariya, while Alia reunites with the filmmaker following the success of Gangubai Kathiawadi.

With Love & War, Bhansali is expected to combine that signature style with the intensity of a war backdrop and the emotional pull of a love story. The pairing of three popular performers has only added to the anticipation surrounding the project.

The film is scheduled to arrive in cinemas worldwide on January 21, 2027. It will be released in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, giving the project a broad theatrical footprint across India.

For the trade, however, the buzz has already begun months before the first ticket is sold. The reported Rs 300 crore distribution negotiations suggest that major studios see considerable theatrical potential in Bhansali’s film.