Updated On: 28 November, 2025 03:40 PM IST | Mumbai | Shruti Sampat
Gustaakh Ishq is a nostalgic, poetic romance set in Old Delhi and vintage Punjab, elevated by strong performances and atmospheric visuals. Though visually rich and tender, its slow pace and underdeveloped conflict may feel uneven, appealing mainly to lovers of quiet, lyrical storytelling

A still from Gustaakh Ishq
Gustaakh Ishq arrives as a quiet, old-world romance that leans heavily on nostalgia, poetry and the atmospheric charm of a bygone era. Set against the backdrop of Old Delhi and vintage Punjab, the film wraps its narrative in handwritten letters, soft ghazals, slow winter afternoons and the gentle rhythms of classic romance. Both reviewers highlight how the film’s world-building becomes its strongest asset — rich textures, warm lighting and delicate frames transport viewers into a time when love unfolded in silences rather than spectacle.
The performances add significant weight to this tenderness. Naseeruddin Shah anchors the film with a moving portrayal of an ageing poet, bringing emotional depth and quiet brilliance to even the simplest scenes. Vijay Varma, shedding his darker roles, embraces a softer, more vulnerable romantic avatar, while Fatima Sana Shaikh complements him with grace and understated charm. Their chemistry is fragile and believable, fitting perfectly with the film’s poetic tone. The music, crafted with lyrical finesse, enhances this mood further, elevating scenes with echoes of Gulzar’s words and a soft orchestral melancholy.