The acclaimed Hindi courtroom drama Haq, featuring powerful performances by Yami Gautam Dhar and Emraan Hashmi, is poised for a digital renaissance. After a steady and meaningful run in cinemas, the film is scheduled to make its highly anticipated debut on a major over-the-top (OTT) platform, promising to reach a vast new audience.
From Theatres to Streaming: A New Chapter for Haq
Directed by Suparn Verma, Haq premiered in cinemas across India on 7 November 2025. The film is now set to begin its streaming journey on Netflix starting 2 January 2026. This digital release is expected to grant the socially relevant narrative a second life, allowing it to connect with viewers in smaller towns and cities beyond the metropolitan theatre circuit.
The film's theatrical performance was marked by consistent audience engagement rather than a blockbuster opening. Haq collected a worldwide box office total of ₹28.44 crore, reflecting a steady draw powered by its compelling subject matter. Critics responded positively, lauding the film's nuanced handling of delicate themes and its commitment to character-driven storytelling.
Plot, Inspiration, and Stellar Cast
At its heart, Haq is an emotionally charged narrative that unfolds primarily within the confines of a courtroom. The story centres on Bano, a woman whose world is shattered when her husband marries for a second time. Choosing to fight rather than fade into silence, she initiates a legal battle that quickly escalates beyond her personal anguish, becoming a landmark case.
The film draws direct inspiration from one of India's most pivotal judicial moments: the historic Supreme Court verdict in the Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum case from the 1980s. This case ignited a nationwide debate on Muslim women's maintenance rights, the interplay between personal religious laws and the constitutional guarantee of equality. Haq uses this backdrop to examine the complex clash between faith, entrenched social customs, and civil law, prompting viewers to question how justice is defined and achieved.
Leading the cast, Yami Gautam Dhar earned widespread praise for her restrained yet profoundly impactful portrayal of a woman battling for dignity and justice. Her performance is widely regarded as the emotional anchor of the film. Emraan Hashmi also received acclaim for his controlled and understated performance, which perfectly complemented the film's tense courtroom atmosphere. The talented Sheeba Chaddha appears in a key supporting role, adding further depth to the narrative.
Production and Lasting Impact
Haq is a collaborative production effort from Vineet Jain, Vishal Gurnani, Juhi Parekh Mehta, and Harman Baweja. The film is backed by production houses Junglee Pictures, Insomnia Films, and Baweja Studios.
With its timely themes of justice, equality, and women's rights, Haq arrives on Netflix at a moment when audiences are actively seeking content with social resonance. Its layered performances, gripping courtroom drama, and exploration of a critical chapter in India's legal history make it a compelling watch. The OTT release is likely to spark renewed conversations and allow this important story to find its rightful place in the digital landscape, resonating with viewers who value substance and powerful storytelling.
