In a delightful turn of events for Bollywood aficionados, the romantic drama previously known as Ul Jalool Ishq has officially been retitled Gustaakh Ishq. This exciting announcement came from renowned fashion designer and producer Manish Malhotra on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, via his Instagram account, where he also shared a captivating new poster featuring the film's lead actors, Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh.
The poster showcases the duo in a tender embrace, their expressions filled with emotion, hinting at a story rich in passion and romance. The film, which is directed by Vibhu Puri, also stars veteran actors Naseeruddin Shah and Sharib Hashmi, adding to the anticipation surrounding its release.
Malhotra's journey into film production began in September 2023 with the launch of his production house, Stage 5 Productions. The first film from the banner, Train From Chhapraula, directed by Tisca Chopra, featured Radhika Apte and Divyenndu in lead roles. Following that, he produced Bun Tikki, directed by Faraz Arif Ansari, which starred Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman, and Abhay Deol. With Gustaakh Ishq, Malhotra is poised to further establish his footprint in the film industry.
In January 2025, Malhotra had first announced Ul Jalool Ishq on Instagram, generating considerable buzz among fans eager for updates. His initial post included a poetic caption: "Bewakoofiyan, Nadan galtiyan, badi bhool hai ishq; Sach Poochiye toh mere huzoor ul jalool hai ishq!" which translates to, "Foolishness, naive mistakes, love is a big blunder; if you ask me, my lord, love is truly foolish!" This poetic flair reflects the film's romantic theme and has resonated with followers.
The film's music, a crucial element in any Bollywood production, is crafted by the legendary Vishal Bhardwaj, with lyrics penned by the iconic Gulzar. Their collaboration promises a soundtrack that could become as memorable as the film itself. Additionally, Resul Pookutty, an Oscar-winning sound designer, is also involved, further elevating the film's production values.
Vijay Varma, who plays a lead role alongside Fatima Sana Shaikh, expressed his excitement about the film during a recent interview at Lakme Fashion Week. He described Ul Jalool Ishq as a "very exciting, very simple, lovely, beautiful, and rich love story." Varma emphasized his commitment to pushing creative boundaries and taking on roles that challenge him, stating, "That's been the pursuit—to push boundaries and see if I can do more than what I did before. I've been lucky to get great opportunities and work with directors who see more in me than I see in myself."
As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how the chemistry between Varma and Shaikh translates on screen. Their first poster has already garnered positive feedback online, with many praising the lyrical quality of the new title, Gustaakh Ishq, and the emotional depth captured in the visuals.
With a stellar cast, an acclaimed director, and a production team filled with industry veterans, Gustaakh Ishq is shaping up to be a significant entry in the romantic drama genre. It marks a notable step in Manish Malhotra's evolving career, as he transitions from fashion to film with a clear vision and a commitment to storytelling.
As the film gears up for production, fans are left wondering what twists and turns the narrative will take, especially with such a strong creative team behind it. The blend of seasoned actors like Naseeruddin Shah and fresh talent such as Varma and Shaikh promises a dynamic viewing experience.
In the coming months, as more details about the film's plot and release date emerge, Gustaakh Ishq is expected to remain a hot topic among Bollywood enthusiasts. The film's romantic premise, combined with its high-profile production team, suggests that it could become a highlight of the cinematic landscape in 2025.
Overall, Gustaakh Ishq represents not just a title change but a fresh beginning for a project that has already captured the hearts of many. With its enchanting storyline, compelling performances, and beautiful music, it is set to resonate with audiences both in India and abroad.
