Fashion designer-turned-producer Manish Malhotra has cast Vijay Varma in his upcoming romantic drama Gustaakh Ishq and says the actor reminds him of Shah Rukh Khan in the 1990s.

Speaking to Varinder Chawla, Malhotra highlighted Vijay’s “young man” quality, explaining that today’s cinema often features “boys and girls” rather than “young men and women.” He added:

“Vijay has that young man quality like SRK in the 90s… He reflects that even in his personality, and I think Pappan in this film—the guy that Vijay plays—he’s a young man. So it’s also bringing back on screen the man-hero, which is what Shah Rukh did in the 90s.”

He praised Vijay for his depth, maturity, height, and contemporary look, noting that these traits set him apart from typical young actors.

About Gustaakh Ishq
The film, directed by Vibhu Puri, features Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sharib Hashmi, with music by Vishal Bhardwaj and lyrics by Gulzar. Produced under Malhotra’s Stage 5 Productions, the film was earlier titled Ul-Jalool Ishq.

The teaser describes it as:

“Ek kahani, jo reh jayegi dil mein nishaani ki tarah. Purani Dilli ki galiyon mein likhi gayi yeh pehle se ishq ki dastaan.”

Gustaakh Ishq is set for release on November 28, 2025, marking another venture from Malhotra’s production house following Train From Chhapraula/Saali Mohabbat and Bun Tikki.