Yami Gautam's Haq Dominates Netflix in Pakistan and Nigeria, Earning Acclaim as Bollywood's Strongest Film
Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi's courtroom drama Haq has transcended borders, emerging as a major hit on Netflix, particularly in Pakistan and Nigeria. Released on January 2, 2026, this film, inspired by the landmark 1985 Shah Bano case, has resonated deeply with audiences, sparking crucial conversations on faith, family, divorce, and women's rights.
Global Success and Chart-Topping Performance
Following its release, Haq quickly built a dedicated following, opening at number one on Netflix India and swiftly moving to the second spot worldwide for non-English films. In its second week, the film garnered 4.5 million views, topping charts in Pakistan and Nigeria. Directed by Suparn S Varma, the story centers around Shazia, portrayed by Yami Gautam, who embarks on an emotional and legal battle for maintenance against her husband, played by Emraan Hashmi, highlighting the struggles within a patriarchal system.
Impact in Pakistan: Stirring Necessary Conversations
In Pakistan, Haq has made a significant impact, trending on Netflix soon after its release and topping the country's charts. The film's portrayal of divorce and women's financial rights has stirred intense and uncomfortable but necessary discussions. Pakistani actor, writer, and producer Fazila Qazi praised the film on Instagram, noting its emotional depth and Yami Gautam's fantastic performance. Lawyer and influencer Maryam Noor compared it favorably to local productions, emphasizing its correct depiction of Islamic principles regarding divorce and family systems.
- One viewer hailed Haq as one of the strongest films Bollywood has released in recent years, with Yami Gautam delivering an unreal performance.
- Another user on X described it as a beautiful movie addressing talaq and maintenance allowance in Islam, wishing for less stigma around divorce and more balanced laws.
- Discussions in Pakistan have highlighted the misrepresentation of these issues in mainstream storytelling, with calls for more accurate portrayals.
Nigeria's Surprising and Emotional Response
In Nigeria, Haq shot to number one on Netflix, reflecting a strong connection with themes of marital justice, child support, and patriarchal control. Many Nigerian women saw their own struggles mirrored in the narrative, particularly in regions where polygamy has deep traditional roots. Viewers expressed disgust at the misogyny depicted, with one noting the terrifying aspects of having to fight for child support. Others urged people to watch the film, describing it as a powerful and anger-inducing experience based on true events.
Box Office and OTT Amplification
Originally released in theaters in November, Haq earned Rs 19.86 crore over a five-week run. However, its OTT release on Netflix truly amplified its reach, bringing widespread acclaim and winning hearts across India and beyond. Featuring Sheeba Chaddha and Danish Hussain, the film has been praised for its compelling performances and timely themes, solidifying its status as a global success story from Bollywood.
