Manish Malhotra debuts as producer with ‘Gustaakh Ishq’

Renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra says his journey into film production feels like a natural extension of a lifelong love for cinema as he prepares for the release of his first production venture, “Gustaakh Ishq: Kucch Pehle Jaisa”. Malhotra said his fascination with films began when he was just six, and he credits his mother for never discouraging his passion, even when he was more interested in movies than studies. He recalls being mesmerised by Amitabh Bachchan’s performance in “Naseeb” and noticing fine visual details in Yash Chopra’s “Silsila”, experiences that eventually sparked his interest in costumes and film aesthetics.

Malhotra began his professional journey as a costume designer in the early 1990s, going on to become one of Bollywood’s most influential stylists. His work in films like “Rangeela”, “Dil To Pagal Hai”, “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” and “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham” helped redefine on-screen fashion. He later launched his couture label, which grew into a leading fashion house known for its craftsmanship and celebrity clientele. Despite the success, Malhotra said he had always dreamed of writing, directing and producing films, but his growing brand consumed most of his time.

It was during the COVID-19 pandemic that he decided to finally pursue filmmaking. He said he used the unexpected personal time to make his long-delayed leap into production, feeling that if he did not act then, he might miss the chance forever. His debut film “Gustaakh Ishq” is scheduled to release in theatres on November 28 and is described as a tribute to classic romance, blending poetry, nostalgia and the charm of timeless love stories. The film stars Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sharib Hashmi, and is directed by Vibhu Puri. Set in the bylanes of Purani Dilli and the fading kothis of Punjab, the story explores themes of passion and unspoken desire.

Malhotra said he was deeply drawn to the film’s poetic world and believes a producer must support the director’s vision while contributing experience in script, length, costumes and visual design. He recalled feeling nervous while discussing fees with Naseeruddin Shah but described their collaboration as rewarding, especially after receiving a message from Shah praising him as one of the best producers he had worked with.

The film’s song “Aap Is Dhoop Mein” brings together Gulzar, Vishal Bhardwaj and Arijit Singh. Malhotra described meeting Gulzar with a request for a song around the word “musafir” and praised the veteran lyricist’s warmth and openness. He also said Vishal Bhardwaj expressed interest in working with him again. Looking ahead, Malhotra’s banner is set to release “Bun Tikki”, starring Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman and Abhay Deol, and “Saali Mohabbat”, marking Tisca Chopra’s directorial debut, as he aims to back diverse and distinctive films.