Four decades ago, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark verdict in favor of Muslim women in the much-discussed Shah Bano case. This judgment provided clear directives for alimony to be paid after divorce, giving a new dimension to the debate surrounding women's rights and their place in society.
- Movie Review: Haque
- Actors: Emraan Hashmi, Yami Gautam Dhar, Sheeba Chaddha, Vartika Singh
- Category: Hindi
- Director: Suparn Verma
- Rating: 2.5/5
Entertainment Desk: Nearly four decades ago, the highly publicized Shah Bano case brought about significant social and legal changes regarding women's rights in the country. The Supreme Court issued a clear directive for Muslim women to receive maintenance after divorce, which set the direction for constitutional rights in the nation. Inspired by this historic judgment, this week's release, the film ‘Haque’, tells the story of women who struggle alone on social and legal paths for their rights.
Film Story
The story of ‘Haque’ begins in a small town in Uttar Pradesh in the 1960s. The marriage of Ahmed Khan (Emraan Hashmi) and Shazia Bano (Yami Gautam Dhar) marks the beginning of a happy life. They have three children, and life is proceeding normally. The twist in the story comes when news arrives of the demise of Saira (Vartika Singh), Ahmed's first love. Without informing Shazia, Ahmed marries Saira and brings her home. This situation becomes unbearable for Shazia, and she leaves for her parental home with her children.
Initially, Ahmed provides maintenance, but later discontinues it. When Shazia demands her rights, Ahmed divorces her through triple talaq. Failing to get justice from religious courts, Shazia, with her father's help, files a maintenance case in the district court. The courtroom drama in the story is compelling. After a long hearing, the court rules in Shazia's favor. Subsequently, the case reaches the High Court and eventually the Supreme Court, where Shazia's struggle becomes an example for all Muslim women in the country.
Direction and Screenplay
Director Suparn Verma has brought this sensitive and poignant story to the screen with great earnestness. The screenplay is written by Reshu Nath. Initially, the film appears as a joyful love story, captivating the audience. A twist in the narrative occurs before the interval, leading to a series of arguments and counter-arguments in the courtroom during the second half. Amidst the legal debates inside the court, Shazia also faces numerous challenges from society.
The cinematography and camera work in the film are excellent. The set design, costumes, and other elements are authentic to the period drama, making the story believable. The dialogues and background score also succeed in emotionally connecting with the audience.
Acting and Cast Performance
Emraan Hashmi delivers a b performance on screen after a long time. His acting is particularly impressive in the courtroom scenes. Yami Gautam Dhar has brought Shazia's character to life. In the role of a victimized and struggling woman, she has splendidly portrayed emotions of pain, hope, and courage on screen. Vartika Singh delivers a balanced performance as Saira, which strengthens the story's twist.
The film's music is average, but the background score and courtroom dialogues add depth to the story. The visual beauty in the cinematography and the period setup lend authenticity to the film.
Why Watch the Film ‘Haque’?
- Story based on legal and social issues – centered on the constitutional rights of Muslim women.
- Excellent acting – Emraan Hashmi and Yami Gautam Dhar's powerful courtroom performances.
- Period drama experience – a realistic portrayal of Uttar Pradesh in the 1960s.
- Strong message – a story that inspires women to fight for their rights.
If you enjoy courtroom dramas, or are a fan of Emraan Hashmi and Yami Gautam Dhar, then buying a ticket for ‘Haque’ will prove to be an emotional and engaging experience for you.
