Gustaakh Ishq out on OTT: Here's where you can stream Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Naseeruddin Shah's poetic romantic drama
Directed by Vibhu Puri and streaming on JioHotstar, Gustaakh Ishq stars Vijay Varma as a man saving an Urdu press through art and love. A poetic, visual masterpiece featuring Naseeruddin Shah.
Last Updated: 09.13 AM, Jan 27, 2026
After captivating theatregoers late last year, the romance drama Gustaakh Ishq has finally arrived on OTT. Exclusively on JioHotstar (OTTPlay Premium), you can watch the film, which began streaming at midnight today, January 27, 2026.
Who directed Gustaakh Ishq?
Directed by Vibhu Puri, the film marks a significant transition for Manish Malhotra from couture to cinematic narrative. The project was renamed before its theatrical premiere on November 28, 2025, from its original title, Ul-Jalool Ishq.
Gustaakh Ishq takes place in 1998 against a nostalgic and atmospheric setting, and it explores the calm charm of Malerkotla, Punjab, and the narrow streets of Purani Dilli (Old Delhi). Pappan, aka Nawabuddin Saifuddin Rehman, is portrayed by Varma. He is a man who is fighting to keep his father's Urdu printing press alive and well after his father passed away.
What is the plot of Gustaakh Ishq?
Pappan finds the renowned but reclusive poet Aziz Beg (Shah) in an attempt to salvage the company. Beg has maintained his incognito for decades. Pappan pretends to be a naive disciple (shagird) to gain the poet's trust and get permission to publish the poet's unfinished works. But things get tricky for Pappan as he develops feelings for Minni (Fatima Sana Shaikh), Aziz's fiercely independent daughter.
An experienced ensemble cast adds depth to the film's lyrical themes. The character of Pappan, played by Varma, is torn between his innate ability to survive and his growing love of art. Minni, played by Shaikh, is a strong and vulnerable lady who learns to love herself. Shah portrays the "Ghalib of Old Delhi" with the seriousness that has become his trademark, serving as the film's emotional anchor. Contributing to the film's realistic performances, Sharib Hashmi makes a crucial appearance as Bhoore.
Which famous artists contributed to the film’s music?
The film also features notable technical and musical contributions. For this "musical poem" effect, Vishal Bhardwaj composed the music, and the renowned Gulzar wrote the lyrics. Resul Pookutty, who won an Oscar for his work in sound design, oversaw the project.
Though critics pointed out its slow-burn pace, audiences lauded Gustaakh Ishq for its visual richness and defiance of contemporary "masala" tendencies while the movie was playing in theatres. Fans of character-driven stories and the grace of Urdu poetry are likely to be the film's internet target demographic.
Where can you stream Gustaakh Ishq on OTT?
Gustaakh Ishq is available to stream on JioHotstar (OTTplay Premium), joining other big releases this week on OTT platforms such as Dhurandhar (an espionage thriller) and the recently streaming Tere Ishk Mein (a romantic drama).
"This film challenged me to explore love beyond words," Vijay Varma said in a recent interview. The actor shared that he is glad the film now finds a wider audience where viewers can truly absorb its poetry and depth.
Gustaakh Ishq FAQs:
Q: When is the OTT release date for Gustaakh Ishq?
A: Gustaakh Ishq began streaming on JioHotstar today, January 27, 2026, at midnight. This follows its theatrical release which took place on November 28, 2025.
Q: Who is the director and producer of Gustaakh Ishq?
A: Gustaakh Ishq is directed by Vibhu Puri (Hawaizaada). It is produced by renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra under his production house, Stage5 Productions, marking his debut project as a film producer.
Q: Who composed the music for Gustaakh Ishq?
A: Gustaakh Ishq features a high-profile musical collaboration between Vishal Bhardwaj, who composed the soundtrack, and the legendary Gulzar, who wrote the lyrics. The title track "Ul-Jalool Ishq" has been one of the most popular songs from the album.