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Gustaakh Ishq Romantic Drama Arrives With Deep Emotions

Newz Daddy Entertainment Updates

The romantic drama Gustaakh Ishq, starring Fatima Sana Shaikh and Vijay Varma, is set to stream on JioHotstar from January 27, 2026. Produced by Manish Malhotra and Dinesh Malhotra and directed by Vibhu Puri, the film brings back a style of storytelling that relies more on emotion than spectacle. In recent years, audiences on streaming platforms have shown a growing interest in quiet, character-driven love stories, especially those that feel rooted in culture and memory rather than fast-paced drama.

The film also features a strong supporting cast including Naseeruddin Shah, Natasha Rastogi, Jaya Bhattacharya, Sharib Hashmi, Zain Khan Durrani and Faisal Rashid. Casting experienced performers alongside younger actors has become a popular approach in Indian cinema, as it allows stories to feel layered and grounded. Veteran actors often bring depth and lived-in emotion, while younger actors connect strongly with new audiences.

Set in 1998, Gustaakh Ishq unfolds across Purani Delhi and Malerkotla, two places known for their rich cultural history, poetry, and close-knit communities. During the late 1990s, India was going through social change, but many traditional values still shaped daily life. Love stories from this period often carried restraint, silence, and social pressure, which makes the setting especially important. The film uses these locations not just as backgrounds, but as emotional spaces where characters listen more than they speak.

The story follows Pappan, an artist searching for meaning, whose life changes after meeting a quiet poet and his strong-willed daughter. Indian cinema has a long tradition of linking art, poetry, and romance, from classic films to modern independent cinema. By placing poetry at the centre of the narrative, the film taps into a deep cultural respect for words, pauses, and expression that goes beyond dialogue. Mentorship, especially between older and younger generations, has also been a recurring theme in meaningful Indian films, often symbolising the passing of values and emotional wisdom.

Producer Manish Malhotra’s comments highlight the film’s visual and emotional richness. Known mainly for his work in fashion, Malhotra has increasingly moved into film production, bringing a strong sense of aesthetics to his projects. His involvement signals a focus on mood, colour, and texture, which suits a story built on longing and silence. Films that blend strong visual design with simple storytelling often find lasting appeal on streaming platforms, where viewers watch at their own pace.

Fatima Sana Shaikh’s reflections on her character point to a larger shift in how women are written in modern Indian films. More stories now focus on what women feel internally rather than what they say out loud. Her mention of silence and restraint reflects real experiences, especially in traditional settings, where women’s emotions are often unspoken. Such portrayals have been praised by critics for being honest and respectful, helping audiences connect on a deeper level.

Her experience working with Vijay Varma and Naseeruddin Shah also reflects a growing culture of collaboration in the industry. Actors today often speak about learning from one another rather than competing, which can be felt on screen through natural performances. Naseeruddin Shah, in particular, is widely respected for his theatre background and subtle acting style, which fits well with a film driven by quiet emotion.

Vijay Varma’s description of Pappan’s inner conflict touches on a theme many viewers relate to: the pull between desire and discipline. Indian love stories have often explored this struggle, especially in social settings where personal wishes clash with expectations. By treating love with restraint and dignity, the film follows a tradition seen in classic romances, where tension grows slowly and meaningfully.

With its arrival on JioHotstar, Gustaakh Ishq is likely to reach a wider audience than during its initial release. Streaming platforms have become important spaces for films that may not rely on big budgets or loud promotion, but instead trust the strength of their story. For viewers seeking a gentle, thoughtful romance that stays with them, this film offers a reflective look at love, choice, and quiet sacrifice.