Review: Haq — Puts Forth an Important Message Without Sensationalism!

The Shah Bano case (1985) was a landmark judgment by the Supreme Court of India concerning the rights of Muslim women to alimony after divorce.
Shah Bano, a 62-year-old Muslim woman, sought maintenance from her husband under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) after he divorced her through triple talaq. The Supreme Court ruled in her favor, affirming that she was entitled to alimony like any other Indian woman. This decision was seen as a major step toward gender equality and secularism in India. Directed by #SuparnVerma, ‘Haq’ draws inspiration from the realities of the Shah Bano case and offers a balanced perspective on the entire episode.

Shazia Bano (Yami Gautam Dhar), a strong-willed woman, is married to a high-profile lawyer, Abbas Khan (Emraan Hashmi). Their early years are filled with love and warmth as they welcome three children into their lives. However, Shazia’s world shatters when Abbas returns from a trip to Pakistan after three months with a new wife, Saira (Vartika Singh). Despite her initial attempts to adjust to the new situation, Shazia soon learns the real reason behind Abbas’s second marriage. Heartbroken, she leaves with her children and moves in with her parents. Abbas initially agrees to pay ₹400 per month as maintenance but abruptly stops after a few months. Left with no choice, Shazia embarks on a long, emotional, and legal battle against her husband — forming the crux of this compelling narrative.

The film derives its strength from subtlety rather than aggression. It doesn’t hammer its message about women’s rights or the concept of Haq being granted; instead, it powerfully conveys that such rights must be claimed through conviction and courage. The director handles the subject with sensitivity, and the emotional journeys of the central characters are beautifully captured in the screenplay.

Some dialogues are clap-worthy and leave a lasting impact. The music complements the narrative and helps maintain the film’s pace, while the silences are used to great effect. The cinematography, too, deserves special mention for its finesse and emotional depth.

#YamiGautam delivers a mature and layered performance, portraying Shazia’s range of emotions with great authenticity. She truly becomes the character and is a delight to watch. #EmraanHashmi plays the gray-shaded Abbas with restraint and conviction, bringing nuance to an otherwise unsympathetic role. Vartika Singh lends solid support, along with the rest of the cast.

Haq conveys an important message without resorting to sensationalism. A sincere and engaging film — definitely a one-time watch.

Rating: ★★★½
– Keerti Kadam