Manish Malhotra’s Gustaakh Ishq brings Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh together in a bold love story

Manish Malhotra’s Gustaakh Ishq brings Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh together in a bold love story

Manish Malhotra, the man who has dressed Bollywood royalty for decades, is stepping into a brand-new role — film producer. His debut theatrical production, Gustaakh Ishq, is set to release in November 2025 under his banner Stage5 Production.

Directed by Vibhu Puri, Gustaakh Ishq dives into the lanes of Purani Dilli and the fading kothis of Punjab. It’s pitched as a tale of passion, longing, and love… but not the “pehle jaisa” variety. Think nostalgia wrapped in poetry, with a dash of unspoken desire.

Watch teaser:

“My love for cinema began in childhood. The silver screen was my doorway to the world..watching colours, clothes, music, and lifestyles unfold in cinema halls shaped my imagination and inspired me to become a designer. Today, stepping into film production feels like my way of giving back to the medium that has given me everything. With Stage5 Production, the journey ahead is about embracing the unexpected ; through stories, genres, and films that continue to surprise and inspire.” Manish Malhotra shared in a statement.

The film’s lineup is impressive. Naseeruddin Shah brings gravitas, Vijay Varma adds his quiet intensity, and Fatima Sana Shaikh steps in with her trademark unpredictability. Add Sharib Hashmi to the mix and you’ve got an ensemble that screams range.

Behind the scenes, it’s just as starry: music by Vishal Bhardwaj, lyrics by Gulzar, sound by Resul Pookutty, and visuals framed by cinematographer Manush Nandan. Honestly, it feels like a filmmaker’s dream team.

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Manish isn’t going at this alone either. He’s producing Gustaakh Ishq with his brother Dinesh Malhotra, aiming to craft stories that balance grandeur with heart. “With Stage5 Production, the journey ahead is about embracing the unexpected — through stories and genres that continue to surprise and inspire,” he said.

The teaser already hints at a moody, old-world romance, the kind that aches more than it heals. And with this cast and crew, expectations are running sky-high.