New Delhi: Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi’s much-awaited courtroom drama Haq finally released in theaters on November 7, bringing to the big screen a deeply poignant story rooted in one of India’s most important legal and social debates. The film, which blends intense performances with a thought-provoking narrative, has received a good response and has grossed around Rs 1.36 crore on the first day, according to early estimates from Sacknilk.
Inspired by a historical case
Haq Shah takes inspiration from the life and legal struggle of Bano Begum, whose 1985 Supreme Court case became a watershed moment in Indian legal history. The judgment granting divorced Muslim women the right to maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure triggered a nationwide discussion on gender equality, personal law and religious identity.
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Read here Who was Shah Bano Begum? The woman whose fight for Rs 200 maintenance changed Indian law – the true story behind ‘Haq’
Before the release, Haq became embroiled in a legal dispute when Shah Bano Begum’s daughter filed a petition in the Madhya Pradesh High Court seeking a stay on the film’s release. However, the court rejected the petition, clearing the way for the film to have its theatrical debut as scheduled.
Story and performance
According to HAQ’s official synopsis on IMDb, “In 1980s India, Shazia Bano seeks justice when her husband stops paying child support after remarrying. Her attempt to silence him with triple talaq sparks a national debate on women’s rights and faith.”
Yami Gautam is being praised for her nuanced portrayal of Shazia and the quiet strength and conviction she brings to the role. Emraan Hashmi also reportedly delivers a compelling performance as the conflicted Abbas, whose personal choices become the catalyst for a historic legal battle.
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direction, tone and reception
Directed by Suparn Verma, Haq adopts a restrained but emotionally charged tone, and uses the courtroom as a stage for ideological confrontation.
Early audience reactions highlight the film’s powerful dialogues, strong performances and emotional depth. Critics have pointed out that Haq does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of the times while conveying a message of resilience and empowerment.
Haq has maintained its momentum and is expected to see a significant rise in its collections till Sunday, which will benefit the family audience and those seeking meaningful cinema.