Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan First Look: Vikrant Massey Romances Shanaya Kapoor, Internet Reacts to Age Gap

The first look of Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, starring Vikrant Massey and debutante Shanaya Kapoor, has been unveiled, sparking a wave of reactions across social media. The upcoming romantic drama, directed by Santosh Singh, has drawn attention for both its storytelling promise and the casting of a much-talked-about lead pair with a noticeable age difference.

The film is based on Ruskin Bond’s beloved short story The Eyes Have It and follows the romantic journey of a blind musician and a theatre artist who cross paths during a train ride. The narrative explores deep emotional connections, how people perceive one another, and the delicate nuances of love that transcend the physical senses. With its soulful theme and poetic backdrop, the movie aims to capture hearts with a tale rooted in simplicity and human emotion.

In the first poster released, Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor are seen sharing a warm, affectionate moment while riding a carousel. The dreamy visual attempts to portray a timeless love story, set against a whimsical and vibrant background. Massey, known for his powerful performances in films like 12th Fail and Chhapaak, appears as the calm and intense musician. Shanaya Kapoor, daughter of actor Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor, makes her much-anticipated Bollywood debut with this film. She is shown in a delicate, graceful pose that hints at her character’s theatrical and emotional nature.

However, the internet has had mixed reactions to the pairing. While some praised the freshness of the duo and the aesthetic charm of the poster, others were quick to point out the age gap between the actors. Vikrant Massey, in his mid-thirties, is significantly older than Shanaya Kapoor, who is in her early twenties. Several netizens commented that the "age difference is showing" and questioned the casting choices. Social media platforms were flooded with opinions ranging from excitement to skepticism, with many comparing this casting to other Bollywood films that have faced similar criticisms.

Despite the divided opinion, there is considerable curiosity about Shanaya Kapoor’s debut. Reports suggest that the newcomer underwent intensive preparation for her role, including acting workshops and character training for over four months. The production team, under the direction of Santosh Singh — known for the series Broken But Beautiful — is optimistic about the film’s emotional depth and visual storytelling.

Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan is slated for theatrical release on July 11, 2025. After its run in cinemas, the film will also be available for streaming on ZEE5. As anticipation builds, the makers are hoping that the audience will look beyond the controversies and embrace the film for its narrative and performances.

In a film industry often dominated by glamor and commercial elements, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan aspires to stand out through a classic tale of connection, perception, and love — and whether it succeeds or not, the audience response will be key.