Actors Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi have completed work on a powerful courtroom drama rooted in one of India’s most debated legal battles — the Shah Bano case of 1985. According to exclusive information from sources close to the production, the film is set to bring to screen the deeply emotional and legally significant narrative that shaped discourse around the rights of Muslim women in India.
The movie, which forms the second part of filmmaker Suparn S Varma’s ambitious courtroom trilogy, follows the success of his previous legal drama Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai starring Manoj Bajpayee. This time, the spotlight is on the historical case of Shah Bano, a Muslim woman whose petition for maintenance after divorce led to a watershed moment in Indian judicial history.
Yami Gautam steps into the role of Shah Bano, portraying the resilience and dignity of the woman who challenged societal norms and legal ambiguities in pursuit of justice. Opposite her, Emraan Hashmi takes on a role inspired by her estranged husband, a character drawn from real-life figure Ahmed Khan, around whom the controversy largely revolved.
Filming for the project has quietly concluded, with scenes shot extensively across various locations in and around Lucknow, including Kakori and Sandila. The production team placed a strong emphasis on realism, conducting meticulous research to ensure the script reflects both the legal intricacies and emotional weight of the original case.
“The courtroom sequences are gripping and feature lengthy, emotionally charged exchanges that will leave audiences moved,” said a source familiar with the film’s development. “This isn’t just a dramatization — it’s a tribute to a critical moment in India’s legal evolution.”
The timing of this announcement is also notable. Today marks the 40th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in favor of Shah Bano, which reaffirmed the right of Muslim women to claim maintenance under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code — a verdict that sparked nationwide debate and ultimately led to legislative changes.
With compelling performances, an issue-driven narrative, and a backdrop of real historical events, the film is poised to make a significant impact both in India and globally. The creators are aiming for an international release later this year, with October or November being considered as possible launch windows.
This upcoming courtroom drama promises to be a cinematic retelling of a pivotal chapter in India’s socio-legal history, anchored by strong performances and a story that remains relevant even today.
