After a successful theatrical run and strong festival buzz, ‘Gustaakh Ishq’ is ready to find a new audience on OTT. The romantic drama, starring Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh in the lead roles, was released in cinemas last November. It is now set to stream digitally, bringing its poetic world of love, legacy, and longing to home screens.
A story rooted in love, poetry, and legacy
Set in the late 1990s, ‘Gustaakh Ishq’ unfolds across Purani Dilli and Punjab. Vijay Varma plays Nawabuddin Saifuddin Rahman, a man weighed down by duty and memory as he struggles to hold his family together while pursuing a deeply personal passion. He is determined to revive a forgotten printing press established by his late father.His journey leads him to an ageing Urdu poet, Aziz Beg, portrayed by Naseeruddin Shah. Art becomes the bridge, poetry the purpose, and love complicates everything. Nawabuddin finds himself drawn to the poet’s daughter, Minni—also known as Mannat—played by Fatima Sana Shaikh. What follows is a tender tale of romance, sacrifice, and difficult choices. The film celebrates old-school love while questioning the cost of preserving tradition in a changing world.
When and where to stream
‘Gustaakh Ishq’ will stream on JioHotstar from January 23, 2026. The OTT release offers a second chance for viewers who missed the film in theatres and for those who enjoy slow-burn romances rooted in art and emotion.
Cast and crew
Directed by Vibhu Puri and produced by Manish Malhotra, the film stars Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharib Hashmi, Rohan Verma, and Natasha Ratogi. The music is composed by Vishal Bhardwaj, with the background score by Hitesh Sonik.
