India, Feb. 10 -- In a span of just a few days, at least five films have altered their release dates in 2026. Some have been changed to dodge clashes, others because shoots and clearances are still underway. From strategic delays to pulling up the schedules, the industry is witnessing a reshuffle driven as much by competition as logistics. The sequel of Pati Patni Aur Woh (2019), starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, Wamiqa Gabbi and Rakul Preet Singh, has been pushed by two months, from March to May. A source close to the project says, "March had gotten crowded already. Dhurandhar 2 is set to clash with Toxic as of now. Also, the work on Pati Patni Aur Woh Do still isn't complete." Similarly, Adivi Sesh-Mrunal Thakur's Dacoit has shifted from March to April, with an exact date to be decided (TBD). "The makers wanted to avoid coming around Dhurandhar 2. Plus, even Toxic is likely to get postponed to April. Once the makers of Toxic announce their slot, Dacoit's will follow," another source explains. Though no announcement has been made yet, Salman Khan-starrer Battle of Galwan is said to be pushed from April to August. "Some portions are still being shot, after which the film has to be cleared by the Ministry of Defence. This will take time. Plus an Independence Day release can do wonders, given the film's patriotic content," says a source close to the project. Meanwhile, Peddi starring Ram Charan has been moved from March to April. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh says, "Everyone wants the best possible release slot. March has two big films already set; why would others not want their own projects to have a better chance? This is actually encouraged." Adding to the churn, Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan and starring Akshay Kumar, has been preponed by a month, shifting from May to April. Interestingly, it was announced as an April 2 release back in December, 2024. We reached out to the team about what prompted the change, but received no response till the time of going to press....