Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Gustaakh Ishq is not just a film—it is a visual ghazal, an ode to old-school romance, lyrical heartbreak, and soulful storytelling. Directed by Vibhu Puri, the film brings together power-packed performances from Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Verma, and Fatima Sana Shaikh, offering a poetic cinematic experience rarely seen in today’s fast-paced Bollywood landscape.
With its rich Urdu literature references, poetic dialogues, and dreamlike frames, Gustaakh Ishq feels like stepping into a world that is both qaayal and ghayal—painful yet mesmerizing.
🎭 Performances: Naseeruddin Shah Steals the Soul of the Film
At the core of Gustaakh Ishq lies Aziz Baigh, played by Naseeruddin Shah with unmatched brilliance. His shayari, wisdom, and emotional depth shape the entire narrative, turning the story into a masterclass of poetic cinema.
Vijay Verma delivers one of his finest performances as Nawabuddin, a man torn between duty and love. His body language, eyes, and old-school ada capture the charm of a struggling shayar.
Fatima Sana Shaikh as Minni holds the emotional center of the story. Calm, graceful, and dignified—her silence often speaks louder than words.
The supporting cast—Sharib Hashmi, Sendrayan, and the young actor playing the younger Aziz—add authenticity and warmth to the emotional journey.
✍️ Script & Story: A Tale of Ishq, Ego, and Poetry
The story begins simply: a man must save his father’s dying press and seeks the legendary poet Aziz Baigh to help revive its fortunes.
But the plot soon transforms into a heartfelt exploration of:
- Moral dilemmas
- Unexpressed desires
- Regret and redemption
- The timelessness of love
Vibhu Puri’s writing blends nostalgia with philosophical musings, making the film feel like an unread chapter from an old Urdu diary.
🎬 Direction & Music: A Tribute to Poetry and Cinema
Vibhu Puri’s direction is deeply inspired by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, yet more intimate and warm. Each frame feels painted, textured, and dipped in emotional hues.
The music—crafted by Vishal Bhardwaj with lyrics by Gulzar Saab—stands as a character of its own:
- Ool Jalool
- Sheher Tere Nai Vasna
- Suniye, Aap
Every track feels like a whispered love letter.
The only drawback is the timeline confusion and overly yellow-tinted frames, which slightly break the immersion—but never enough to weaken the magic.
❤️ Final Word: A Poetic, Beautiful, Old-School Romance
Gustaakh Ishq is not for everyone—but for those who love poetry, literature, and soulful romance, it is an unforgettable experience. It celebrates:
- Literature
- Urdu poetry
- Classic romance
- Emotional sincerity
Naseeruddin Shah’s dialogue captures the film’s soul perfectly:
“Insaan ka zameer ek baar kaanpta zaroor hai…”
The thought lingers long after the film fades.
