In an exclusive interview, celebrated designer and now debut producer Manish Malhotra shared his insights on his upcoming film "Gustaakh Ishq," and particularly, his admiration for the film’s leading lady, Fatima Sana Shaikh. Malhotra expressed his belief that Shaikh's portrayal in the film will set a new benchmark, stating, "Every boy will be looking for a girl like Fatima Sana Shaikh after watching the film".
Malhotra, known for his keen eye for aesthetics and understanding of audience sensibilities, is venturing into film production with "Gustaakh Ishq - Kucch Pehle Jaisa" under his banner, Stage5 Production. Produced alongside his brother Dinesh Malhotra, the film is directed by Vibhu Puri and features a stellar cast including Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, and Sharib Hashmi. The film is scheduled to premiere at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 24, 2025, and will be released in theaters on November 28, 2025.
Malhotra's decision to produce "Gustaakh Ishq" stems from a desire to revive the classic, poetic love stories reminiscent of the work of legends like R.D. Burman and Gulzar. He feels that contemporary cinema often lacks the purity and emotional depth that characterized these timeless romances. "Gustaakh Ishq" aims to fill this void with its simplicity, soulful music, poetry, and clean romance.
The film, set amidst the evocative bylanes of Purani Dilli and the fading mansions of Punjab, promises a poignant tale of passion and unspoken desire. The teaser hints at a period romance, highlighting the budding love story between Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh's characters. Naseeruddin Shah's character adds an element of conflict, while Sharib Hashmi's role remains under wraps. Vishal Bhardwaj has composed the music, and Gulzar has penned the lyrics, further enhancing the film's old-world charm. Sound design is by Resul Pookutty, and cinematography by Manush Nandan.
Malhotra's journey into film production is a significant milestone, marking a conscious departure from mainstream cinema. He aims to embrace the unexpected through stories, genres, and films that surprise and inspire. He shared that producing films was a childhood dream he shared with his brother, Dinesh Malhotra. He hopes this journey continues with sincerity.
"Gustaakh Ishq" marks Manish Malhotra's debut as a film producer, a role he embraces with the intention of giving back to the medium that has shaped his imagination and inspired him to become a designer. With Stage5 Production, he envisions embracing the unexpected through stories, genres and films that continue to surprise and inspire. Malhotra has also designed the costumes for the film along with Shivank Kapoor.
