IFP S15: Fatima Sana Shaikh Discusses Concerns Working with Naseeruddin Shah
Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh recently participated in IFP Season 15, which took place in Mumbai. During an engaging session titled “Bringing Back Old-School Romance,” she discussed her experiences working alongside renowned actor Naseeruddin Shah in the film ‘Gustaakh Ishq.’
Fatima Sana Shaikh on Naseeruddin Shah’s Influence
Fatima described Shah as “inherently a teacher” and shared her feelings of both fear and admiration while performing with him. She recalled a specific scene where Shah’s subtle guidance transformed her performance. “He placed my hand on his pulse so I could feel his heartbeat,” she explained. This gesture encouraged her to immerse herself in the emotional moment. Shah reassured her, saying, “It’s okay. Feel it. You don’t have to hit those beats perfectly.”
Vijay Varma’s Praise for Shah
Co-star Vijay Varma praised Shah’s unique presence on set. He likened Shah’s voice to that of a deity, saying, “Have you heard him? It sounds like God is talking to you directly.” Varma continued to highlight Shah’s linguistic abilities, expressing admiration for his command over various dialects, including Hindi, Urdu, English, Punjabi, and Parsi. He stated, “He is an institution.”
Insights into Modern Love
In the same discussion, Fatima shared her thoughts on modern relationships. She mentioned her fondness for video calls, especially in long-distance relationships. “Those early morning voice notes or video calls feel good and are very charming,” she noted.
Character Reflections in ‘Gustaakh Ishq’
When discussing the film, Vijay reflected on his character’s struggles with love. He humorously remarked that his character “really has failed visibly in love,” acknowledging that he understands love better than his on-screen persona.
About ‘Gustaakh Ishq’
‘Gustaakh Ishq’ features a stellar cast, including Fatima Sana Shaikh, Vijay Varma, and Naseeruddin Shah. The film has been produced by esteemed designer Manish Malhotra, marking his debut in film production. It premiered on November 28, 2025, and has received positive feedback from both fans and critics.
