Fatima Sana Shaikh and Vijay Varma’s latest release, Gustaakh Ishq, is now running in theatres. The trailer promised us Old Delhi charm, the softness of the Urdu language, and a love story waiting to bloom. But is Manish Malhotra’s debut production worth a watch? Read our Gustaakh Ishq review to know.

Gustaakh Ishq review: The plot

Set in 1988 Delhi, Gustaakh Ishq focuses on the lives of Nawabuddin (Vijay Varma), Aziz or Babba (Naseeruddin Shah), and Aziz’s daughter Minni (Fatima Sana Shaikh). Nawabuddin is struggling to save his late father’s dying Urdu press when he learns about a famous poet, Aziz. Despite never publishing any of his works, Aziz enjoys a cult-like following. This sets Nawabuddin on a determined path to find Aziz and publish his poetry. His plan is clever, and he’s cunning enough to pull it off. But when he finally finds Aziz, he also finds himself falling in love with Aziz’s daughter. As time passes, Nawabuddin grows close to Aziz too, leaving him torn between preserving his father’s legacy and choosing the woman he loves.

What we loved about the movie

From the premise and the trailer, Gustaakh Ishq appears to be a simple romance meant to sweep us off our feet. But the truth is, it goes far beyond that. The film features hard-hitting dialogues that make you reflect on life and the moral dilemmas we all inevitably face. But it never turns into a moral lecture about what you should or shouldn’t do. The first half of the film sets the stage, but it’s the second half that truly delivers. The transition from a gentle, slow-moving story to one filled with tension, emotion, and high stakes is handled remarkably smoothly.

The setting and backdrop make the film even more relevant and appealing. Along with warmth, the story carries sharp humour and a generous dose of shayari.

Vijay Varma is, as always, convincing, both as a cunning press owner and a heartbroken lover. Fatima Sana Shaikh holds her ground despite being surrounded by powerhouse performers. Sharib Hashmi brings vibrance and humour to the story. But it is Naseeruddin Shah who steals the show. He is so compelling as a heartbroken, retired shayar that you feel every emotion with him — you cry when he cries, and you laugh when he laughs.

What we didn’t love about Gustaakh Ishq

Even though Gustaakh Ishq is calming and peaceful, it comes with its flaws. At times, the film leans too heavily on Urdu, which is potentially challenging for non-Urdu speakers. The pacing also dips in parts, turning the film from poetic to a little sluggish. And while Fatima shines, her character is underwritten; she doesn’t evolve over the course of the story and ends up being positioned largely as the object of Nawabuddin’s affection.

Overall, Gustaakh Ishq makes for a wonderful watch if you love the Urdu language. And if you’re willing to overlook the occasional heavy Urdu phrases, it still offers a meaningful cinematic experience about love, longing, and principles.

Can you watch Gustaakh Ishq with your family?: Yes, the movie doesn’t portray obscene language or intimacy.

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