Film: Haq
Cast: Yami Gautam, Emraan Hashmi, Sheeba Chaddha
Directed by: Suparn S. Varma
Duration: 2 hours 17 minutes
Rating: * * 1 / 2
Inspired by the real-life case of Shah Bano, Haq presents a compelling narrative of determined woman who battled against all odds. Any underdog story usually makes for a decent cinematic viewing and Haq directed by Suparn S. Varma, by Bollywood standards, ticks most boxes and that includes some over the top scenes.
The topic itself is inherently complex – it is personal and, due to its connection to the minority community, it also takes on a political dimension – or evolved into one. The first half of the film takes certain liberties with musical numbers, romance, and scenes that verge on soap opera territory, but it shifts focus in the second half as the more significant drama unfolds.
Adapted from Jigna Vora’s book ‘Bano: Bharat ke Beti’, the story begins in the mid-1970s when Shazia (Yami Gautam Dhar) marries Abbas Khan (Emraan Hashmi), a prosperous lawyer. Their marriage appears typical, with a couple of children and another on the way. The film progresses at its own rhythm, filled with songs and a background score designed to indicate whether a scene is predominantly sad or happy – in case the visuals and dialogue do not convey the emotions.
She is a devoted Muslim with a deep understanding of the Quran and the Ayaat, whereas he is not actively engaged in religious practices. There is a scene following their marriage where Shazia enters the kitchen and discovers three pressure cookers, all of which require repairs. When Abbas arrives, he suggests purchasing a new one. This moment serves as a metaphor for his approach to life, and after disappearing for three months, he returns home with a new wife – despite the fact that the previous one did not require any fixing. Shazia attempts to assert her rights, but the situation deteriorates. When he ceases to provide her with maintenance support (Rs.400 per month), she takes action and, with the assistance of her supportive father (Danish Hussain), she approaches the court. The sessions court rules in her favour, mandating him to pay Rs.18 monthly for maintenance – a decision that the High Court later increases to Rs.180. By the time the case reaches the Supreme Court, the focus shifts from the husband and wife to broader issues concerning a community, their personal laws, secularism, the constitution, and patriarchy. The film commendably addresses these topics.
Bollywood seldom tackles social issues, and when it does, it often exaggerates them unnecessarily. In this regard, Haq maintains a factual and balanced approach. Abbas is not portrayed as a monstrous figure; rather, he genuinely believes that his actions are right and justified. Sheebha Chaddha, as the lawyer who assists Shazia, is impressive, as always. Hashmi convincingly embodies a character willing to fight over a seemingly simple issue. Yami Gautam excels as the wronged woman – particularly in the climactic courtroom scene where she defends herself, delivering a pitch-perfect performance. All said and seen, Haq has a few redeemable elements.
