Pakistan Plans Film on Lyari to Counter Indian Portrayal of Dhurandhar

Pakistan Announces ‘Mera Lyari’ Film to Counter Indian Portrayal of Karachi Neighborhood

Pakistani authorities have unveiled plans to produce a film titled “Mera Lyari” in response to what they describe as misrepresentation of Karachi’s Lyari neighborhood in the recent Bollywood production “Dhurandhar.” The announcement comes as part of an effort to present what officials call a more authentic depiction of the area.

The Sindh Information Department, which is spearheading the initiative, stated that the film aims to counter the portrayal of Lyari in “Dhurandhar,” which depicts the neighborhood as a hotbed of gang violence, drug trafficking, and militancy between 1999 and 2009. Though “Dhurandhar” has not been officially released in Pakistan, its commercial success in India has drawn significant attention across the border.

“Lyari represents culture, peace and resilience,” the Sindh Information Department declared in a post on X (formerly Twitter), rejecting what it termed as propaganda in the Indian film’s portrayal. The department announced that “Mera Lyari” is scheduled for release in January 2026, though details regarding the cast and production team remain undisclosed.

Lyari, one of Karachi’s oldest and most densely populated neighborhoods, has a complex history. While the area has indeed experienced periods of gang-related violence, particularly during the early 2000s as depicted in “Dhurandhar,” it is also known for its rich cultural heritage, sporting contributions, and community resilience.

The Indian film, directed by Aditya Dhar and starring popular Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, includes characters reportedly based on real-life figures associated with criminal activities and law enforcement operations in the area. The film’s narrative focuses on this tumultuous period, which Pakistani officials argue presents an incomplete picture of Lyari’s identity.

According to sources familiar with the project, “Mera Lyari” will emphasize the neighborhood’s social fabric, cultural contributions, and the community’s efforts to overcome challenges. The film represents a growing trend of nations using cinema as a tool for shaping international perceptions and countering narratives they view as damaging to their image.

This cinematic response highlights the ongoing cultural tensions between India and Pakistan, neighboring countries with a long history of political disputes that often spill over into media and entertainment. Films depicting sensitive cross-border issues frequently become flashpoints for controversy, with both nations accusing each other of propaganda.

The announcement also reflects the increasing recognition of cinema’s power in shaping international perceptions. In recent years, both countries have produced films addressing historical and contemporary issues related to their complex relationship, often presenting dramatically different interpretations of shared events.

Media analysts note that Lyari’s representation has broader implications for Pakistan’s international image. The neighborhood, despite its challenges, has produced notable athletes, artists, and community leaders who have contributed significantly to Pakistani society.

“This film appears to be an attempt to reclaim the narrative about a complex urban space that has experienced both significant challenges and remarkable resilience,” said a Karachi-based cultural critic who requested anonymity. “How communities are portrayed in international media can significantly impact both external perceptions and internal identity.”

As production begins on “Mera Lyari,” the project represents not just a cinematic undertaking but a deliberate effort to present an alternative narrative about a neighborhood that has often been defined by its challenges rather than its achievements.