Gustaakh Ishq producer Manish Malhotra reveals why Fatima Sana Shaikh was his first choice; says, “She’s very beautiful, very petite”

November 11, 2025 - 2:18 PM IST

Fatima Sana Shaikh is gearing up for her next release, Gustaakh Ishq - Kucch Pehle Jaisa, an old-school romantic drama. 2025 has been a busy year for the actress, and this film adds to her promising lineup. At the trailer launch event on November 10, producer Manish Malhotra shared that Fatima was his first choice for the lead role. He appreciated her past performances and mentioned that this film presents her in a role that highlights her elegance in a traditional way.

Gustaakh Ishq producer Manish Malhotra reveals why Fatima Sana Shaikh was his first choice; says, “She’s very beautiful, very petite”

Recalling an instance of deciding the film’s cast, Manish Malhotra shared, “The discussion continued, and I asked, why not Fatima? She's very petite and beautiful. She's always done such wonderful roles, but she's never come as a 'heroine' - with the dupatta and nazaakat. So I texted her, and she was very responsive. She asked for the script, and I sent it to her at about 8o' clock. Just when I went to sleep at about 11:30 pm, I got a message from her saying that 'I'm doing the film'. We had a lot of discussions.”

Gustaakh Ishq brings back the essence of timeless romance, and its recently released trailer offers a glimpse of its classic charm. The film weaves together emotions, love, and shayari, capturing the beauty of longing and connection. Fatima Sana Shaikh and Vijay Varma share a natural chemistry that enhances the story, while the melodious soundtrack complements the film’s poetic tone.

Directed by Vibhu Puri, Gustaakh Ishq tells a heartfelt love story filled with passion and unspoken emotions, set against the backdrop of Purani Dilli’s lanes and the old havelis of Punjab. Produced by Manish Malhotra and Dinesh Malhotra under Stage5 Production, the film is set to release in theatres on November 28.

Also Read: Gustaakh Ishq trailer launch: Fatima Sana Shaikh on changing methods of romance: “Earlier, people used to send love letters with flowers, now they send memes, smileys; I long for slow, passionate and deep love”