‘Haq’ tops Netflix charts despite theatrical failure
Despite failing to make a significant mark in theaters, the Imran Hashmi and Yami Gautam-starrer “Haq” has found remarkable success on streaming platforms. Released in theaters on November 7, the film received widespread critical acclaim but failed to attract general audiences, proving disappointing for director Suparn Verma. However, everything changed after the film’s release on Netflix on January 2.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. According to Netflix’s weekly report, “Haq” currently tops the popularity charts in India. As a non-English language film, it holds second position on the global charts. Additionally, the film ranks number one in five countries worldwide and appears in the top ten in 14 countries. The film has also won the hearts of Bangladeshi viewers, becoming the most-watched title on Netflix in Bangladesh this week. Overall, this Hindi-language courtroom drama has made a significant impact on the international stage.
“Haq” is based on the book “Banu: Bharat Ki Beti”, which recounts real events from 1967 in Uttar Pradesh, India. Sajiya Banu married lawyer Abbas Khan, and their married life initially went well. They were blessed with two children. Once, Abbas went away for about a month for work and returned with a new wife. This marked the beginning of the destruction of Sajiya Banu’s happy household. Sajiya decided to take legal action in court for her children’s maintenance.
However, the court sent her to the Muslim Family Court, where she faced rejection. Eventually, Abbas Khan divorced Sajiya. Still, she didn’t give up. After nearly a decade of struggle, she won her rights in the Supreme Court. This verdict set a unique precedent in India.
Speaking about the film, Yami Gautam said, “This story deeply moved me. It’s not just Sajiya’s fight, but a reflection of the strength, resilience, and sense of justice of countless women.”
Imran Hashmi commented, “We still live in a patriarchal society. Women’s dignity is neglected in various spheres. In the film ‘Haq’, we’ve tried to present this issue as sensitively as possible.”
The film’s journey from theatrical failure to streaming success demonstrates how quality content can find its audience through different platforms, and how stories centered on justice and women’s rights continue to resonate with viewers across borders.
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