Gustaakh Ishq OTT release date: When and where to watch Vijay Varma-Fatima Sana Shaikh's romantic drama

Gustaakh Ishq is a 1990s-set Indian romantic drama praised for its aesthetics, strong performances and focus on Urdu poetry, but it was criticised for its slow pace, weak climax, and uneven screenplay. Starring Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Naseeruddin Shah, the film, which was released in cinemas in November 2025, is now set to land on OTT.

When and where to watch Gustaakh Ishq?

Gustaakh Ishq will be released on January 23 on JioHotstar. You can also watch the film with your OTTplay Premium subscription. The film will be out on OTT 60 days after its theatrical run. 

What's the story of Gustaakh Ishq?

Gustaakh Ishq (2025) is a romantic drama about Nawabuddin (Vijay Varma), who tries to save his family's dying printing press by publishing the works of a reclusive, aging poet, Aziz Beg (Naseeruddin Shah), but falls for Aziz's daughter, Minni/Mannat (Fatima Sana Shaikh).

This leads to a story of love, art, and sacrifice set in the late 1990s in Punjab/Purani Dilli, exploring themes of poetry, legacy, and old-school romance. 

Speaking more specifically, Nawabuddin inherits a failing printing press and seeks out the legendary but reclusive poet Aziz Beg to publish his unpublished poems, hoping to revive his business and legacy. While Nawabuddin poses as a disciple (shagird) to get close to Aziz, he develops a sweet, old-fashioned romance with Aziz's recently divorced daughter, Minni/Mannat. Their burgeoning love faces strains due to misunderstandings and Nawabuddin's complicated mission. He is forced to choose between his love for Minnie or his loyalty to the poet, while simultaneously facing the battle of art versus commerce.

Gustaakh Ishq questions whether art needs an audience or market success, contrasting traditional poetry with commercial viability. It is a deliberately slow, old-world feel, focusing on the beauty and tahzeeb (refinement) of Purani Dilli and Punjab. The narrative is deeply embedded with Shayari (poetry) and understated romance, conveyed through gestures and glances.

The main cast includes Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Naseeruddin Shah, and Sharib Hashmi, directed by Vibhu Puri and produced by Manish Malhotra.

Also Read: Gustaakh Ishq Twitter Review: Vijay Varma-Fatima Sana Shaikh's romance drama worth the hype? Netizens say, 'Not perfect, but refreshingly mature'

How much did Gustaakh Ishq earn at the box office?

Gustaakh Ishq earned an average number at the box office. It minted Rs. 0.5 crore on day one and ended up earning only Rs. 1.68 crore in total at the domestic box office. 

FAQs:

Q: When will Gustaakh Ishq release on OTT?

A: Gustaakh Ishq will be released on JioHotstar (OTTplay Premium) on January 23, 2026.

Q: Who produces Gustaakh Ishq?

A: Gustaakh Ishq marks the debut project of fashion designer Manish Malhotra as a producer.

Q: Who are the lead actors in Gustaakh Ishq?

A: Gustaakh Ishq stars Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh in the lead roles, along with Naseeruddin Shah and Sharib Hashmi in pivotal roles.