Haider(2014)
Haider is a 2014 Indian Hindi-language political crime thriller film directed by Vishal Bhardwaj. The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Tabu, Kay Kay Menon, and Shraddha Kapoor in lead roles. It is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's tragedy Hamlet, set against the backdrop of the Kashmir insurgency in 1995. The story follows Haider Meer, a young poet who returns to his homeland after his father's disappearance and uncovers a web of betrayal, murder, and political conspiracy. The film was praised for its bold political commentary, powerful performances, and haunting music composed by Vishal Bhardwaj with lyrics by Gulzar. It won the National Film Award for Best Music Direction and multiple Filmfare Awards. Haider was released on 2 October 2014 and is available for streaming on ZEE5.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Zee5, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 2 October 2014
- Director
- Vishal Bharadwaj
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 40m
- Rating
- 7.8/10
Storyline
Haider Meer returns to Kashmir in 1995 after his father, a respected doctor, goes missing. He finds his mother living with his uncle, who is now a powerful politician. As Haider searches for the truth, he discovers his father was murdered by his own brother. Haider must choose between justice and revenge in a land torn by conflict.
“To be or not to be in Kashmir”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Haider
Cast reunions in this film: Tabu & Vishal Bharadwaj (7 films together), Tabu & Irrfan Khan (4 films together), Irrfan Khan & Vishal Bharadwaj (4 films together), Tabu & Kulbhushan Kharbanda (3 films together), Irrfan Khan & Kay Kay Menon (2 films together), and Vishal Bharadwaj & Shahid Kapoor (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film is an adaptation of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' set in 1990s Kashmir during the conflict.
- Shahid Kapoor learned to play the rubab, a Kashmiri instrument, for his role as Haider.
- The song 'Bismil' features a rare 'Bhand Pather' folk theatre performance, almost extinct in Kashmir.
- Vishal Bhardwaj co-wrote the script with journalist Basharat Peer, who grew up in Kashmir.
- The film was partly shot in real locations in Kashmir despite security challenges during production.
- Tabu's character was inspired by Gertrude from 'Hamlet' but with a more active, political agency.
- It was the first mainstream Bollywood film to depict the controversial AFSPA law in Kashmir.