"Haq," starring Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi, is generating significant buzz as a courtroom drama that tackles patriarchy and explores themes of justice, faith, and women's rights. Inspired by the historic Mohd Ahmed Khan vs. Shah Bano Begum case, the film revisits a pivotal moment in Indian judicial history, promising a nail-biting narrative with brilliant performances. Directed by Suparn S. Varma, "Haq" aims to spark meaningful dialogue about the balance between faith and constitutional rights, gender equality, and religious reform.
The film draws its premise from the 1985 Supreme Court judgment in the Shah Bano case, which revolved around a 62-year-old Muslim woman who sought maintenance from her husband. This led to a nationwide debate over women's rights, religious laws, and secularism. "Haq" revisits the emotional, legal, and moral conflicts that shaped the discourse on gender justice and religious freedom in India.
Emraan Hashmi plays a lawyer and the husband of Yami Gautam's character, who is inspired by Shah Bano. Their courtroom confrontations unfold as legal duels and deeply personal battles between conviction, love, and identity. Hashmi describes his character as fighting for his faith and what he thinks is right, while Gautam's character fights for her rights and financial stability after divorce.
Varma lauded Hashmi's performance, saying he gave his character a humane touch. The director believes audiences will understand Abbas's point of view after seeing the film. Yami Gautam is known for her compelling performances in "Article 370" and "Lost," and her role in "Haq" reportedly represents the legal dimension of the case, embodying the struggle for women's rights and justice. The film also stars Vartika Singh, Sheeba Chaddha, Danish Hussain, and Aseem Hattangady in pivotal roles.
Hashmi clarified that the film aims to portray the events as they unfolded, without taking sides or promoting any political or religious narrative. He emphasized that the filmmakers' intention is clear: to present the truth without bias, leaving the final judgment to the audience. According to Hashmi, viewers have appreciated the film's realistic tone and balanced approach. He believes this reaction proves that the audience values thought-provoking cinema that raises questions without preaching.
"Haq" has been described as a progressive film that does not attempt to stir controversy. Varma said that the film is receiving only love and that people are happily surprised that it is a balanced film. He added that the film taps deep within us and seeks to engage the heart. Hashmi emphasized that the film is pro-women and not against any community or religion. He explained that the film raises the issue of dignity and equal rights for women.
"Haq" is produced by Junglee Pictures, along with Insomnia Films and Baweja Studio. The film is scheduled to release in theaters on November 7th. With its sensitive subject matter and talented cast, "Haq" is poised to be a thought-provoking and engaging film that will spark conversations about important social issues.
