Bollywood star studied Holy Quran for powerful role in Haq
Extensive research explored Islamic law and social realities of the era
DUBAI – Bollywood actor Yami Gautam drew widespread attention for her intensive preparation for the legal drama Haq, for which she studied the Holy Quran for four months.
The detail was shared by filmmaker Suparn Verma during an interview with BBC Asian Network, highlighting the depth of research behind the film.
The project, which released in 2025, marked another significant chapter in Gautam’s evolving career.
Prep for Haq role
Verma said Gautam had learned to read the Holy Quran and worked to understand Quranic Arabic to portray her character authentically. The film followed the story of Shazia Bano, a woman in 1970s India who challenged her husband in court after he refused to provide maintenance following a second marriage and divorce.
The director revealed that the team had spent nearly a year and a half studying Islamic law to ensure accuracy. He noted that the film aimed to counter misinformation and present a grounded narrative rooted in research and lived realities.
Haq was based on the real-life case of Shah Bano Begum, whose 1985 victory in the Supreme Court of India secured her right to maintenance. The case was widely regarded as a watershed moment for Muslim women’s rights in India.
Verma stated that the story reflected enduring social challenges, noting that many of the struggles faced by women in the 1970s had continued in contemporary society. The film received a strong response from audiences, with the director describing the reaction as overwhelming.
Vicky Donor success
At the same time, Gautam is celebrating her debut film Vicky Donor, directed by Shoojit Sircar, which completed 14 years on April 20. She reshared a video montage originally posted by co-star Ayushmann Khurrana, featuring memorable scenes, dialogues and songs from the film.
Released in 2012, Vicky Donor starred Khurrana, Gautam and Anu Kapoor, and explored the subject of sperm donation with humour and sensitivity. The film achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, while marking Gautam’s Bollywood debut. Her reaction to the milestone reflected surprise at how quickly time had passed.
Yami Gautam’s career
Following her debut, Gautam built a diverse filmography with performances in projects such as Uri: The Surgical Strike, A Thursday and Article 370, alongside her role in Haq. She also appeared in a cameo in Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, directed by her husband Aditya Dhar.
Before entering films, Gautam had gained recognition on television through Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam, where she starred opposite Gaurav Khanna.