What is the real story behind Jayy Randhawa and Shehnaaz Gill starrer 'Ishqnama'?

Jayy Randhawa and Shehnaaz Gill's Ishqnama is not just another love story. The film is inspired by a real-life romance that began near the India-Pakistan border in the early 1980s. While the teaser has left fans curious, many are now wondering if the story is based on true events. The answer is yes. Ishqnama takes inspiration from Nirmal Singh Nimma Langah's autobiography-cum-novel Hind-Pak Bordernama, which tells the emotional story of his love for a Pakistani woman, Nasima Beghum. Their journey of love, sacrifice, and separation is what makes the film even more special.

Real Story That Inspired Ishqnama

What sets Ishqnama apart is its connection to a true story. The film draws inspiration from Hind-Pak Bordernama, an autobiography-cum-novel written by Nirmal Singh Nimma Langah. Hailing from Langah village in Punjab's Gurdaspur district, close to the India-Pakistan border, Nimma documented his extraordinary love story with a Pakistani woman named Nasima Beghum.

As shared by Nimma, their relationship began in 1981 and soon turned into a tale of courage and devotion. He claimed that he crossed the international border several times just to meet Nasima. He also revealed that she once travelled through the same route into East Punjab and Delhi, making their love story one that defied borders and fear. Their bond continued for nearly two and a half years before Pakistani security agencies arrested Nimma, bringing a painful pause to their meetings.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jai Randhhawa( ਜੈ ਰੰਧਾਵਾ ) (@jayyrandhawa)

Bond That Survived Every Challenge

The couple's journey was filled with hardships. Nimma stated that he was eventually arrested by Pakistani security officials after secretly crossing the border for nearly two and a half years. Even during those difficult times, Nasima continued to support him. According to his account, she fought for his freedom and arranged Rs 4 lakh to help secure his release.

Nimma later visited Pakistan in 1986 to meet her for what became their final meeting. Their love story came to an end after border fencing was installed in 1988, making it impossible for them to see each other again.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jai Randhhawa( ਜੈ ਰੰਧਾਵਾ ) (@jayyrandhawa)

Why Everyone Is Waiting for Ishqnama?

The makers have thanked fans for standing by the film since its announcement and credited their unwavering support for the growing anticipation. They have also teased that audiences will witness many more surprises before the film reaches theatres. Starring Jayy Randhawa and Shehnaaz Gill in the lead, Ishqnama is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on July 24, 2026. Inspired by a heartfelt real-life romance, the film promises to bring an unforgettable story of love, separation, and sacrifice to the big screen.

- PTC PUNJABI