Manish Malhotra has announced his next film Gustaakh Ishq starring Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Naseeruddin Shah and Sharib Hashmi. He is all set to mark his debut as a producer with this upcoming
romantic drama. The film is all set to release in November and the first glimpse will be out on August 25.
Taking to his Instagram handle, Manish Malhotra shared a long post and wrote, “Since childhood, I’ve lived with a deep Ishq for cinema. The magic of the stories, the glow of the big screen and the emotions that stay long after the credits roll. That love has shaped who I am, and today, it gives me the greatest joy to share a dream come true. This November, 2025, my first film as a producer, ‘Gustaakh Ishq – Kuch Pehle Jaisa’ will release in theatres.” Another part of it read, “This Monday, I will be sharing with you the very first glimpse into the poetic world of Gustaakh Ishq.”
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Recently, the producer invited the lead pair of the film, Vijay and Fatima, to his residence for lunch. Manish Malhotra dropped a collage picture featuring the trio smiling for some selfies. Sharing the picture in his stories, the designer wrote in the caption, “Sunday lunch at home with my @stage5production #gustakhishq pair Fatima Sana Shaikh and Vijay Varma.”
About the film
The film, which was initially named Ul-Jalool Ishq, recently underwent a title change. The update was shared by Manish himself on Instagram, where he also revealed a new poster featuring the lead pair in a tender embrace. It depicted Vijay gently hugging Fatima close to him. With gentle hues and emotionally rich imagery, it sets the tone for what appears to be a passionate love story.
Gustaakh Ishq is the third film produced by Manish Malhotra’s Stage 5 Production, which he founded in September 2023. The banner’s previous titles were Train From Chhapraula and Bun Tikki. However, the release dates of the other two projects are yet to be announced.
Poster out
In April, the makers dropped first poster. The freshly dropped poster captures the crackling chemistry between Vijay and Fatima. With soft hues and emotionally rich visuals, it sets the tone for what looks like a passionate love story. The new title, Gustaakh Ishq, has been well-received online, with many fans admiring its lyrical and poetic feel. Earlier this year, Manish Malhotra had hinted at the film’s essence with a poetic announcement that read:
“Bewakoofiyaan, Nadan galtiyan, badi bhool hai ishq, Sach Poochiye toh mere huzoor, ul jalool hai ishq!”
Gustaakh Ishq is quickly becoming one of the most awaited love stories of the year. The film seems to promise a heady blend of chaos, passion, and unapologetic romance—elements that are sure to resonate with lovers of dramatic storytelling.
