Following the release of the Indian propaganda film Dhurandhar, Pakistan announced a counter movie, Mera Lyari film, to portray Karachi’s historic neighborhood as peaceful, resilient, and culturally rich.
The Sindh government has supported the production of the film Mera Lyari, the film will be released in the first week of January.
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The Sindh Information Department said the distorted portrayal shown internationally cannot erase ground realities, adding that Lyari’s identity has long been shaped by music, sports, brotherhood, and community strength.
Officials stressed that films carrying political messaging often simplify complex urban histories, ignoring decades of social resilience, cultural expression, and everyday coexistence experienced by Lyari’s residents.
READ: Indian film Dhurandhar banned in several Gulf countries over anti-Pakistan content: reports
According to the department, the upcoming film aims to correct narratives by focusing on ordinary lives, cultural heritage, and peaceful aspirations rather than conflict-driven stereotypes commonly associated with the area.
In an official statement, authorities said Lyari represents pride and prosperity, stressing that cinematic propaganda cannot define a community whose identity extends far beyond episodic violence.
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The counter film project, titled Mera Lyari, is scheduled for release in January 2026, with producers promising authentic storytelling developed in consultation with local communities.
It is worth noting that the propaganda film Dhurandhar was released in India in recent days, featuring lead performances by Ranveer Singh, Akshay Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and others.
