Making a film is a demanding process that often takes years of planning, effort, and teamwork. While most films manage to wrap up production within schedule, Indian cinema has also seen projects that stretched endlessly due to unforeseen tragedies. One such film holds a unique and tragic record—it took more than two decades to reach the audience, during which time two lead actors and even the director passed away.

The film in question is Love and God, a project that began in 1963 but was finally released only in 1986. By the time audiences could watch it in theatres, none of the key people who had brought the film to life were alive.

The film was directed and produced by K. Asif, best known for his grand vision. Love and God was his only colour film and was based on the legendary love story of Laila and Majnu. Initially, acclaimed actor Guru Dutt was cast in the role of Qais (Majnu), opposite Nimmi as Laila. However, tragedy struck early—Guru Dutt passed away in 1964, just a year after shooting had begun, forcing the film to be shelved.

Several years later, K. Asif decided to revive the project and recast the lead role with Sanjeev Kumar. Filming resumed in 1970, raising hopes that the long-delayed project would finally be completed. But fate intervened once again. K. Asif died on March 9, 1971, before the climax could be shot, and the film was abandoned for the second time.

For nearly 15 years after the director’s death, the film remained unfinished. Eventually, Asif’s wife decided to honour his promise and dream. With the support of producer K. C. Bokadia, she gathered whatever footage was available, worked with multiple studios, and painstakingly pieced the film together.

Finally, Love and God was released in 1986. Tragically, by the time it reached cinemas, Sanjeev Kumar had also passed away. The film thus earned a bittersweet place in Indian cinema history—not just for its epic love story, but for the extraordinary and heartbreaking journey behind its making.