The upcoming cinematic venture Love And War directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali has been generating significant buzz lately. Promotional materials released recently showcase the primary cast members in distinct avatars. However, one specific poster featuring Vicky Kaushal holding a lit cigarette drew sharp criticism from a prominent industry figure, sparking a broader conversation about the normalization of smoking culture in mainstream movies.
Sanjay Gupta Questions Promotional Smoking Imagery
Director Sanjay Gupta took to X to share a collage highlighting promotional stills from multiple upcoming and recent releases. The compiled image featured Ranbir Kapoor from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's film Animal, Ranveer Singh from Aditya धर's upcoming project Dhurandhar, and Vicky Kaushal from Sanjay Leela Bhansali's forthcoming film Love And War. All three actors are visibly holding cigarettes in these promotional visuals, which prompted the filmmaker to publicly voice his frustration.
The Relevance of Anti-Smoking Ads Questioned
Commenting on the promotional trend, the director questioned the purpose of the mandatory anti-smoking public service announcements aired inside movie theaters before and during screenings. He questioned the logic of enduring those unpleasant warnings when major promotional campaigns feature leading stars smoking. The post immediately caught traction online, dividing social media users and triggering debates about cinematic responsibility.
Users Point Out Past Cinematic Choices
Following the online remarks, several social media users pointed out the director's own past cinematic work. A user brought up the 2002 film Kaante, directed by Gupta, noting a specific musical sequence that prominently featured stylish smoking imagery. The user highlighted the contrast, calling out the irony between the filmmaker's past creative choices and his current public stance on the matter.
Anticipation Around Love And War
Meanwhile, the upcoming period drama continues to stay in the headlines due to its star-studded cast and distinct aesthetic. Posters featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal have already been unveiled. Alia appears in a retro cabbaret dancer look, adding to the visual appeal of the project which is set against a retro backdrop.
