After garnering critical attention at international film festivals and a theatrical release last year, Vibhu Puri’s romantic drama Gustaakh Ishq is finally set for its digital premiere. The film, starring Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh, will begin streaming on JioHotstar from January 23, 2026.
From Film Festival Buzz To OTT Premiere
Gustaakh Ishq first made headlines with its world premiere at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa, where it was appreciated for its lyrical storytelling and classic romantic sensibility. The film later released in theatres in November 2025 and found a niche audience drawn to its nostalgic tone and soulful narrative.
Produced by Manish Malhotra, the film now reaches a wider audience with its OTT debut.
Story Rooted In Love, Legacy And Old Delhi
Set in the historic lanes of Darya Ganj in Old Delhi, Gustaakh Ishq follows Nawabuddin Saifuddin Rahman (Vijay Varma), a young man burdened by responsibility yet driven by hope. Supporting his widowed mother and younger brother, Nawabuddin dreams of reviving his late father’s abandoned printing press — a symbol of both legacy and lost ambition.
His carefully planned life takes an unexpected turn during a work trip to Punjab, where he falls in love with the daughter of an Urdu poet. What unfolds is a tender exploration of love, sacrifice, and the quiet conflict between tradition and modernity.
Vijay Varma’s Romantic Turn
For Vijay Varma, Gustaakh Ishq marks a noticeable shift from the intense, darker roles he is widely known for. The film allows him to step into the shoes of a gentle, old-world romantic — a character defined by restraint, emotion, and quiet resilience.
Fatima Sana Shaikh’s Graceful Performance
Fatima Sana Shaikh brings warmth and nazaakat to her role, embodying a character rooted in poetry and emotional depth. Producer Manish Malhotra has previously shared that Fatima connected instantly with the script and signed the film within hours of reading it, eager to explore a softer, more lyrical role.
When And Where To Watch
Gustaakh Ishq will stream exclusively on JioHotstar from January 23, 2026, giving audiences a chance to experience its romantic, old-soul charm from the comfort of home.
For viewers who enjoy intimate love stories steeped in culture, poetry, and nostalgia, Gustaakh Ishq promises a quietly moving watch.
