Ishqiya is a story of romance between individuals caught in a web of crime, suspense, passion and deceit. Two thieves, Khalujan (Naseeruddin Shah) and Babban (Arshad Warsi), are on the run from their boss, Mushtaq (Salman Shahid). They seek refuge in the house of an old friend, but instead meet his widow, Krishna (Vidya Balan). As they spend time together, the thieves get attracted to her, Khalujan with his old-fashioned idea of love and Babban with his youthful lust. The threat of imminent death forces them on a path of violence and betrayal. Set in a rural landscape, Ishqiya explores the most of basic human emotions influenced by desire, greed and revenge.