Haq Review: Yami Gautam Dhar Shines in a Powerful Legal Drama; Emraan Hashmi Is Intensely Compelling

Haq is a bold, emotionally charged legal drama that confronts questions of identity, faith, gender, and justice with rare sensitivity. Directed by Suparn S Varma, the film is anchored by a career-best performance from Yami Gautam Dhar and a restrained yet powerful turn by Emraan Hashmi. Their ethical conflict forms the emotional backbone of this gripping courtroom drama.

A Story Rooted in Reality

Set in Uttar Pradesh’s fictional town of Sankhni, Haq follows the journey of Shazia Bano, a Muslim woman whose seemingly happy marriage to lawyer Abbas Khan slowly unravels. What begins as a loving relationship takes a painful turn when Abbas brings home a second wife, forcing Shazia to confront betrayal, injustice, and deeply rooted patriarchal traditions.

When Shazia seeks basic child maintenance, her personal fight transforms into a landmark legal battle that challenges the relationship between Muslim Personal Law and Section 125 of the CrPC, eventually reaching the Supreme Court of India.

A Courtroom That Becomes a Moral Battlefield

The courtroom in Haq is not merely a setting but a space where faith, law, and conscience collide. The film raises difficult yet necessary questions:

• What rights does a Muslim woman truly have after divorce?
• Can constitutional law coexist with religious personal laws?
• Does standing up for dignity mean inviting social shame?

Writer Reshu Nath crafts a layered screenplay filled with sharp dialogues and emotionally resonant monologues. The narrative never simplifies its characters into heroes or villains, allowing moral ambiguity to guide the story.

Yami Gautam Dhar’s Career-Best Performance

As Shazia, Yami Gautam Dhar delivers a deeply affecting performance. She portrays a woman who is strong yet fragile, restrained yet fierce. Her courtroom arguments feel personal rather than performative, driven by lived pain and unwavering self-respect. This role marks a significant milestone in her career.

Emraan Hashmi’s Quiet Intensity

Emraan Hashmi, as Abbas, avoids caricature and brings subtle conviction to his role. He portrays a man shaped by ego, entitlement, and emotional detachment with unsettling realism. His measured performance complements Yami’s intensity, making their confrontations deeply compelling.

Direction, Craft, and Supporting Performances

The film benefits from realistic cinematography, understated background score, and authentic costume design. The supporting cast, including Sheeba Chadha, Vartika Singh, and Aseem Hattangady, adds depth and credibility to the narrative.

While the second half slows slightly due to dense legal proceedings, the film prioritizes nuance over melodrama—a choice that strengthens its emotional impact.

Final Verdict

Haq is a courageous, thought-provoking legal drama that refuses easy answers. It treats complex religious and social debates with empathy and intelligence, never resorting to sensationalism.

Driven by exceptional performances and a morally rich screenplay, Haq stands out as one of the most meaningful courtroom dramas in recent times.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)