Ananya Panday has expressed her excitement for Manish Malhotra's debut production, "Gustaakh Ishq," a romantic drama that promises to bring back the charm of old-school love. The film, which stars Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh in leading roles, with Naseeruddin Shah and Sharib Hashmi in supporting roles, has already garnered attention for its nostalgic appeal and classic love story vibe.
"Gustaakh Ishq" marks a significant milestone for Malhotra, the celebrated fashion designer, as he ventures into film production with his banner, Stage5 Production, co-founded with his brother Dinesh Malhotra. The film was screened at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 24, ahead of its theatrical release.
Directed by Vibhu Puri, known for "Hawaizaada" (2015), "Gustaakh Ishq" is set against the backdrop of Purani Delhi, centering around Vijay Varma's character, Nawabuddin Saifuddin Rahman, who is striving to save his father’s Urdu printing press. The movie aims to capture the essence of an era where love was expressed and celebrated in its purest form.
The film's music is composed by Vishal Bhardwaj, with lyrics penned by Gulzar, adding another layer of depth and artistry to the project. Their collaboration suggests a memorable soundtrack that will resonate with audiences long after the film.
Ahead of its release, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) made some changes to the film's language, replacing certain words to ensure it received a U/A certificate, making it suitable for family audiences. Despite these changes, no visual cuts were requested, as the board deemed the film appropriate for family viewing.
Initial reviews of "Gustaakh Ishq" describe it as a refreshing tale of romance, with dreamy and nostalgic elements. Some critics highlight that while the film is visually appealing and creates a romantic mood, the plot may be somewhat light. However, the performances of the cast, particularly Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh, are anticipated to be emotionally layered, complementing the film's nostalgic tone. Fatima Sana Shaikh expressed her desire for slow, passionate, and deep love, while Vijay Varma commented on how people quickly label relationships instead of understanding them.
Ananya Panday's anticipation for "Gustaakh Ishq" reflects the growing buzz around the film, which promises a refreshing take on romance, set apart from the toxic and regressive portrayals often seen in Bollywood. As audiences eagerly await its release, "Gustaakh Ishq" is poised to offer a nostalgic and elegant cinematic experience.
