Shehnaaz Gill on love, Ishqnama, and living in the present
Synopsis
Shehnaaz Gill's words on love — 'whether it is fulfilled or not, it shouldn't matter' — land differently when you know her history with the late Sidharth Shukla. Now, with Ishqnama, a true-story period drama set on the India-Pakistan border, she is channelling that lived experience of love and loss into her most emotionally ambitious role yet.
Key Takeaways
Shehnaaz Gill says love's fulfilment is irrelevant — 'It shouldn't matter' — urging people to live in the present.
She reportedly is dating actor Raghav Juyal , though neither has confirmed the relationship publicly.
Ishqnama is based on the true story of Nimma and Nasima , set on the India-Pakistan border between 1981 and 1988 .
The film is adapted from the book Hind Pak Bordernama , directed by Arvvindr S.
Music is by B Praak and Jaani ; the film released on 24 July 2025 in India, Canada, and the UK.
Actress Shehnaaz Gill has opened up about love, loss, and the philosophy of living in the moment, speaking on the sidelines of her latest release Ishqnama, a period romantic drama hitting screens on 24 July 2025. The Punjabi actress, whose bond with the late Sidharth Shukla became one of Hindi television's most talked-about love stories, offered a reflective take on why the destination of love matters less than the journey itself.
Shehnaaz on Love and the Present Moment
'Love is incomplete, whether it is fulfilled or not. It shouldn't matter,' Gill said. 'I think we should live in the present. Live in the present.' The actress, who has long carried the weight of public grief over her relationship with Shukla, appeared to draw from personal experience as she urged people to embrace what they have rather than mourn what they don't.
She elaborated: 'People keep looking toward the future, but sometimes that only brings pain. So it's better to live in the present, live well, and live happily. Live with loyalty. That's it.' The remarks come amid reports that Gill is now reportedly dating actor Raghav Juyal, though neither has publicly confirmed the relationship.
Love Across Borders as Political Statement
Asked whether cross-border love stories had been reduced to political talking points, Gill did not shy away. 'When there is love, political agendas and all these things start forming because love is such a powerful thing. It kills a person while they're still alive. So, if you want to die, then love,' she said — a line that doubles as both personal reflection and a thematic preview of Ishqnama.
The observation is particularly resonant given the film's setting: the India-Pakistan border between 1981 and 1988, a period of heightened geopolitical tension that serves as a backdrop for a deeply human story of forced separation.
About Ishqnama
Ishqnama is based on a true story, adapted from the book Hind Pak Bordernama. It chronicles the lives of real-life soulmates Nimma and Nasima, tracing their journey across a divided subcontinent. The film explores the psychological toll of enforced distance and the resilience of the human spirit when sustained by love.
Directed by Arvvindr S. Khaira and produced by Sourabh Rana and Ravneet Kaur Chahal, the film stars Jai, Shehnaaz Gill, and Saurabh Sachdeva, alongside an ensemble cast. Music is composed by B Praak, with lyrics by Jaani — a pairing that has previously delivered some of Punjabi cinema's most emotionally resonant tracks.
Release and What to Expect
The film released worldwide on 24 July 2025 across India, Canada, and the UK. For Gill, Ishqnama represents a significant tonal shift — from the reality-TV visibility that made her a household name to a restrained, emotionally layered period drama. Whether the film translates her personal narrative of love and loss into box-office momentum will be closely watched.
Point of View
A niche period drama about India-Pakistan border love, can expand her audience beyond the fanbase that has followed her since Bigg Boss. B Praak and Jaani's music gives the film a commercial hook, but the real test is whether a restrained, true-story format translates for a multiplex audience more accustomed to Gill in high-energy contexts. The cross-border love angle also arrives at a politically charged moment — which could either amplify the film's emotional resonance or limit its reach depending on the cultural mood.
NationPress
25 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Shehnaaz Gill say about love in her recent interview?
Shehnaaz Gill said 'Love is incomplete, whether it is fulfilled or not — it shouldn't matter,' adding that people should focus on living in the present rather than chasing future outcomes. She also cautioned that fixating on the future often brings pain.
What is Ishqnama about?
Ishqnama is a period romantic drama based on the true story of Nimma and Nasima, two real-life soulmates separated by the India-Pakistan border between 1981 and 1988. Adapted from the book Hind Pak Bordernama, it explores love, sacrifice, and the human cost of forced separation.
When and where did Ishqnama release?
Ishqnama released worldwide on 24 July 2025 across India, Canada, and the UK.
Who directed and produced Ishqnama?
Ishqnama was directed by Arvvindr S. Khaira and produced by Sourabh Rana and Ravneet Kaur Chahal. The music was composed by B Praak with lyrics by Jaani.
Is Shehnaaz Gill dating Raghav Juyal?
Shehnaaz Gill is reportedly dating actor Raghav Juyal, according to circulating reports, though neither has publicly confirmed the relationship.
