'Gustakh Ishq' offers an experience different from typical Bollywood romance films. Instead of fast-paced drama or glamorous settings, this film is based on feelings, poetry, and the ambiance of old cities.
- Movie Review: Gustakh Ishq
- Cast: Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Naseeruddin Shah, and Sharib Hashmi
- Writers: Vibhu Puri and Prashant Jha
- Director: Vibhu Puri
- Producer: Manish Malhotra
- Release: November 28, 2025
- Rating: 3.5/5
Entertainment News: Gustakh Ishq is a film that offers an opportunity to pause and feel love in today's fast-paced life. It is directed by Vibhu Puri and produced by renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra. The film's greatest beauty lies in its ability to portray the ambiance of Old Delhi and Punjab, its streets, Urdu poetry, and the etiquette of bygone eras with immense simplicity and sensitivity.
This is not a typical Bollywood romance; rather, it is a slow-burning emotional story that doesn't rush, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in every moment of the experience.
Story: Love That Blossoms Gradually
The film's story revolves around Nawabuddin Saifuddin Rehman (Vijay Varma) and Minni (Fatima Sana Shaikh). Nawabuddin is trying to save his father's struggling printing press. He hopes that if the poetry of renowned Urdu poet Aziz (Naseeruddin Shah) is published, the press might be revived.
However, Aziz believes that poetry isn't merely for fame. To persuade him, Nawabuddin starts visiting his home under the guise of learning poetry. There, he meets Minni, a calm, simple, and composed teacher. Gradually, a relationship blossoms between the two, devoid of any drama, filled only with feelings and emotions.
The real question of the story is whether Nawabuddin will publish Aziz's poetry to save the press, or respect his mentor's feelings. This conflict drives the film forward and gives the audience a taste of a different kind of love.
Acting: Natural and Heart-Touching
Vijay Varma appears distinctly different in this film from his previous roles. Where he typically portrays intense or angry characters, here he is a calm and deeply-in-love individual. The depth of emotion and simplicity in his eyes makes it authentic. Fatima Sana Shaikh also leaves an impact with her understated performance. Her chemistry with Vijay feels incredibly natural.
Naseeruddin Shah's presence adds depth of poetry and emotion to the film. Supporting actors like Sharib Hashmi make the film even more realistic.
To Watch or Not to Watch
Director Vibhu Puri and writer Prashant Jha have chosen the path of classic romance, diverging from modern romantic narratives. The cinematography and locations create a genuine sense of being in the 90s. Manish Malhotra's production beautifully brings the simplicity and romance of a bygone era to the screen. Vishal Bhardwaj has composed the film's music, while Gulzar's lyrics make it even more soulful. There are a total of three songs, but each portrays a different hue and feeling of love. The music further enhances the film's slow and profound romance.
If you anticipate fast-paced drama or twists, this film might feel slow. In some places, the film also feels lengthy. However, if you appreciate old streets, gradually blossoming love, poetry, and heartfelt emotions, then 'Gustakh Ishq' will touch your heart.
