Earlier this Friday, the makers of the Shane Nigam starrer Haal clarified that they could not release Atif Aslam's version of the 'Hijr' song on any digital platform due to the central government's directive to ban content from Pakistan. As the platforms must adhere to the directive, "some songs may currently be unavailable on platforms," the makers revealed. They went on to add, "We know this isn't easy and truly appreciate your understanding and support. It's also our time to stand with our nation. If there are any updates, we'll be sure to keep you informed."
There is a version of the aforesaid song on YouTube sung by Ankit Tiwari for the film, directed by first-time filmmaker Veeraa. Recently, Haal composer Nandhagopan V confirmed that Asif recorded a song for the film, without mentioning its title. The music director expressed his admiration for Atif as an artist and his gratitude to the singer for lending his voice to the track. In the latest post, the makers confirmed that the song in question is 'Hijr'. It would have marked Atif's debut in Malayalam cinema. The song is expected to come out on streaming platforms once the government lifts the ban on content hailing from Pakistan.
Recently, Haal cleared its censorship hurdles and is set to release soon in theatres over the Christmas season. The Censor Board raised objections to some of its scenes, including one showing beef biryani consumption, and permitted its screening provided the makers cut the said sequences from the film.
Veeraa has directed the film from a screenplay by Nishad Koya. It stars Sakshi Vaidya in the female lead role. The cast also includes Johny Antony, Sangeetha Madhavan Nair, Madhupal, Nishant Sagar, Joy Mathew, Riyaz Narmakala, Niyas Becker, Raveendran, Suresh Krishna, Manoj KU, Sohan Seenulal, Sreedhanya, and Unniraja.