From Couture to Cinema: Manish Malhotra’s Bold Debut with Gustaakh Ishq

For over three decades, Manish Malhotra has defined the way India dreams on screen. From chiffon saris gliding across Swiss mountains to heavily embroidered bridal lehengas that became every bride’s fantasy, he has shaped Bollywood’s most iconic looks. His label became a symbol of luxury, glamour, and aspiration.

But deep down, Manish Malhotra’s first love was always cinema. And now, in November 2025, he’s coming full circle with his film production debut, Gustaakh Ishq.

Stage5 Production: A New Chapter

Under his banner Stage5 Production, co-founded with his brother Dinesh Malhotra, Manish isn’t just “trying out” films — he’s creating a platform for storytelling. A space where writers, actors, singers, and technicians can come together to build something that lasts longer than trends.

What’s interesting is what this film is not: it’s not a fashion-heavy vanity project. Instead, Gustaakh Ishq is an intense story of desire, silence, and longing, crafted with some of the finest talents in Indian cinema.

The Dream Team Behind Gustaakh Ishq

Manish has brought together legends and fresh sparks alike:

• 🎼 Music: Vishal Bhardwaj

• ✍️ Lyrics: Gulzar

• 🔊 Sound Design: Resul Pookutty

• 🎥 Cinematography: Manush Nandan

And the cast? A powerhouse of talent — Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sharib Hashmi. Each one known for adding depth, charisma, and rawness to their roles.

Why This Film Matters

• Manish’s Homecoming: Before couture, cinema was his first dream. This film brings him back to his roots.

• Substance Over Spectacle: Backed by powerful storytelling instead of just visual grandeur.

• Creative Collaboration: The film unites India’s best minds in music, lyrics, and sound design.

• New Space for Talent: Stage5 Production could become a hub for fresh creative voices in Indian cinema.
  

Manish Malhotra’s Own Words (Unspoken But Clear)

With Gustaakh Ishq, Manish isn’t just producing a film — he’s rewriting his vocabulary. For years, he told stories through fabric. Now, he’s telling them through faces, words, and emotions.

This isn’t a detour. It’s a homecoming. A boy who once sat wide-eyed in a dark cinema hall is now ready to give back to the screen that gave him his first dream.

Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab! (FAQs)

1. What is Manish Malhotra’s debut film as a producer? His debut film as a producer is Gustaakh Ishq, releasing in November 2025.

2. Under which banner is he producing films? He launched his production house Stage5 Production with his brother Dinesh Malhotra.

3. Who are the stars of Gustaakh Ishq? The cast includes Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sharib Hashmi.

4. Who is the director of the film? Gustaakh Ishq is directed by Vibhu Puri.

5. What makes Gustaakh Ishq special? Apart from the stellar cast, the film brings together legends like Vishal Bhardwaj (music), Gulzar (lyrics), and Resul Pookutty (sound) promising a cinematic experience that blends storytelling with artistry.