Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar, set predominantly in Karachi’s Lyari town between 1999 and 2009, is generating strong reactions not only in India but also across the border in Pakistan—despite the film not being released there. The first part of the film, which hit theatres on December 5 and has been on a record-breaking run at the box office, depicts Lyari as a violence-ridden neighbourhood marked by gang wars, police crackdowns, drug trafficking, arms proliferation and terrorism.
Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar Sparks Debate in Pakistan Over Portrayal of Lyari
The portrayal has drawn sharp criticism from Pakistan’s Sindh Information Department, which accused the film of misrepresenting Lyari. In a post on X, the department said Lyari symbolises culture, peace and resilience rather than violence, and alleged that Dhurandhar spreads propaganda. It announced Mera Lyari, a film aimed at presenting what it called the “authentic story of pride and prosperity,” scheduled for release in January 2026.
“Misrepresentation cannot erase reality. Lyari stands for culture, peace, and resilience—not violence,” the Sindh Information Department stated, adding that “Indian propaganda against Lyari will never be successful.”
Ranveer Singh’s character Humza Ali Mazari travels to Pakistan
In Dhurandhar, Ranveer Singh’s character Humza Ali Mazari travels to Pakistan and eventually reaches Lyari, a locality that has long been associated—rightly or wrongly—with organised crime in popular narratives about Karachi. The film references the era when Karachi earned a reputation as one of Pakistan’s most dangerous cities, with Lyari often cited as a hub of gang activity.
The movie also features Akshaye Khanna as Rehman Dakait, one of Karachi’s most notorious gang leaders, who historically operated out of Lyari. Opposing him is the character of Superintendent of Police Chaudhary Aslam Khan, portrayed as a fearless officer determined to dismantle gang networks in the area.
While Pakistan prepares its cinematic counter-narrative with Mera Lyari, the Dhurandhar franchise is set to continue its momentum. The makers have already announced that the second part of Dhurandhar is slated for release on March 19, a move that could further fuel cross-border debate over history, representation and popular cinema.
