Bhansali's Madhubala Biopic Begins Filming In September, Report Says
Sara Arjun to portray Madhubala in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next production.
Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali is reportedly set to begin work on his much-anticipated biopic on legendary Hindi cinema actress Madhubala in September. According to a report, Bhansali plans to move directly to the project after completing production on his upcoming film Love & War. The reported schedule places the beginning of the biopic’s shoot at Royal Palms in Goregaon, Mumbai, where the filmmaker is currently completing the final song sequence of Love & War.
The report stated that production on Love & War is expected to conclude by the end of August, after which the production design team for the Madhubala project will begin transforming the Royal Palms location. The biopic is reportedly expected to go on floors in September, allowing Bhansali’s next project to follow immediately after the completion of his current film. The reported schedule, however, remains subject to changes as production details for the upcoming project have not been officially disclosed.
Sara Arjun is reportedly set to play Madhubala in the yet-to-be-titled film. The project is expected to explore the life and legacy of one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated actresses, whose career included several enduring performances. According to the report, Sara has already begun preparing for the role. Director Jasmeet K. Reen, known for Darlings, is reportedly attached to helm the film and is said to be focusing on Madhubala’s personality, mannerisms and the social and cinematic world in which she lived.
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The Madhubala biopic is expected to be a major project given the actress’s lasting influence on Indian cinema. Madhubala became one of the most recognisable stars of the Hindi film industry and is particularly remembered for her screen presence and performances in films that continue to be discussed decades after their release. The upcoming film is expected to examine aspects of her life and career, although details about its storyline, supporting cast and production remain under wraps.
Before moving to the biopic, Bhansali is completing Love & War, which reunites him with Ranbir Kapoor after their collaboration on Saawariya. The film also stars Vicky Kaushal and Alia Bhatt and is set against a wartime backdrop, with its story revolving around an intense emotional relationship involving the three central characters. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on January 21, 2027, and its final production work is currently underway.
The reported transition from Love & War to the Madhubala project indicates that Bhansali is preparing to move quickly into his next production. With Sara Arjun reportedly preparing for the lead role and Jasmeet K. Reen attached as director, the film has already generated interest despite limited details being officially revealed. If the reported September schedule goes ahead, production on the biopic will mark the next major phase in Bhansali’s filmmaking plans, with audiences awaiting further announcements about the project.
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