Bollywood actress Yami Gautam is set to step into the shoes of Shah Bano, bringing to life the remarkable story of the landmark 1985 Supreme Court case, Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum. This legal battle, which spanned seven years, reshaped discussions around women’s rights in India. The film marks Yami’s first project since welcoming her child in May 2024, making her comeback even more significant.
The Story Behind the Case
In April 1978, Shah Bano Begum, a 62-year-old Muslim woman, petitioned the Supreme Court for maintenance under Section 125 of the CrPC after being divorced through triple talaq. Her husband opposed the claim, citing Muslim Personal Law, which required maintenance only during the iddat period. After years of legal wrangling, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Shah Bano in April 1985, making it a landmark judgment that sparked nationwide debates on personal laws and women’s rights.
The Team Behind the Film
The film is being produced by Junglee Pictures, in collaboration with Insomnia Media’s Vishal Gurnani and Juhi Parekh Mehta, along with Harman Baweja under Baweja Studios. Suparn Varma, known for directing hit web series like The Family Man Season 2 and Rana Naidu, will helm the project.
The screenplay has been penned by Reshu Nath, who has worked on acclaimed projects like Illegal and Heera Mandi. The film draws inspiration from an unpublished book by Jigna Vora, whose memoir inspired the Netflix series Scoop.
Yami’s Excitement for the Role
Fresh off the success of her critically acclaimed film Article 370, Yami is thrilled to portray such a powerful and historical character. Sharing her thoughts, she said,
“It’s an honor to bring Shah Bano’s story to life—a narrative that challenges societal norms and highlights the resilience of women.”
What’s Next for Yami Gautam?
Apart from this project, Yami will also feature opposite Pratik Gandhi in the romantic comedy Dhoom Dhaam. With her natural ability to embody complex characters, fans are eagerly awaiting this portrayal, which promises to be a career-defining performance.
Mark your calendars—this film is not just a story; it’s a bold statement on justice, equality, and resilience!
