Key Points:
- “Haq” releases on Netflix January 2, 2026, after November 7 theatrical debut
- Yami Gautam plays Shazia Bano, Emraan Hashmi plays her lawyer husband Abbas
- Film is inspired by India’s historic Shah Bano case from the 1980s
- Story addresses triple talaq, women’s rights, and constitutional law
- Directed by Suparn Verma, screenplay by Reshu Nath
The much-awaited film “Haq,” starring Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi, had been generating significant buzz since its announcement due to its powerful subject matter and the first on-screen pairing of these two strong actors. Released in theaters on November 7, 2025, the intense courtroom drama received mixed reactions but sparked continued discussion about its content and performances. Now, viewers who missed the theatrical release can watch the film on Netflix starting January 2, 2026, when it will reach a much wider audience and reignite conversations about its sensitive themes.
Plot and Character Dynamics
In the film, Yami Gautam delivers a powerful performance as Shazia Bano, an ordinary housewife, while Emraan Hashmi portrays her husband Abbas, a lawyer by profession. The story takes a dramatic turn when Abbas divorces Shazia through triple talaq, abandoning her and their children while stopping all financial support. Shazia’s subsequent legal battle transforms her personal struggle into a major national debate on women’s rights, religion, and justice in the 1980s. Both actors received high praise from audiences and critics, with Yami’s emotional performance particularly strengthening the film’s impact.
Historical Inspiration and Social Themes
The story of “Haq” draws inspiration from India’s historic Shah Bano case, raising serious issues such as faith versus secular law, gender equality, women’s rights, and personal identity. The film effectively portrays the conflict between personal religious beliefs and constitutional rights in contemporary India, making it a thought-provoking watch. By addressing the controversial practice of triple talaq and its impact on women’s lives, the film contributes to ongoing discussions about religious reform and gender justice in Indian society.
Creative Team and Production Values
Directed by Suparn Verma with screenplay by Reshu Nath, “Haq” combines a strong script with powerful dialogues and compelling performances. The film’s courtroom drama format allows for intense verbal confrontations and moral dilemmas, while its period setting in the 1980s provides historical context for the legal and social battles of that era. The production team’s attention to detail in recreating the period atmosphere adds authenticity to the narrative, enhancing the viewing experience.
Digital Release Strategy
The decision to release “Haq” on Netflix on January 2, 2026, positions the film to capitalize on the post-New Year holiday viewing period when audiences are actively seeking quality content. This timing will allow the film to reach international audiences and generate renewed discussion about its themes, potentially attracting viewers who may have overlooked its theatrical release. The OTT platform’s global reach will enable the film’s message about women’s rights and constitutional justice to resonate with a diverse, worldwide audience.
