Pakistan Announces Film ‘Mera Lyari’ in Response to Indian Film Dhurandhar

The Pakistani government has announced the release of its upcoming film, “Mera Lyari”, scheduled to premiere next month. The film aims to counter the negative portrayal of Pakistan, particularly the Lyari area, in the Indian movie “Dhurandhar.”

Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon strongly criticised the Indian film, calling it “another example of anti-Pakistan propaganda.” In a statement shared on social media platform X, Memon asserted, “Lyari is not a symbol of violence, but a place of culture, peace, capability, and courage.” He added that “Mera Lyari” will showcase the true spirit of the area, highlighting its peace, prosperity, and pride, in stark contrast to the image depicted in the Indian film.

The film is expected to offer a positive narrative, portraying the resilience of Lyari and the untold stories of its people, challenging longstanding stereotypes associated with the region.

Legal Action Over Dhurandhar

Meanwhile, Noreen Aslam, widow of martyred Sindh Police officer Chaudhry Aslam, expressed outrage over the portrayal of her late husband in Dhurandhar. Chaudhry Aslam, renowned for his heroic efforts against terrorism, is depicted in the Bollywood film in a manner that Noreen says misrepresents both his service and Pakistan’s reputation.

Speaking to a private news channel, she stated, “This film is full of anti-Pakistan propaganda, and it presents a distorted picture of my husband’s services, tarnishing his legacy and damaging Pakistan’s reputation.” She also criticised the film’s focus on Lyari and the exaggerated depiction of gangster Rehman Dakait, emphasizing that her husband had devoted his life to combating terrorists, not criminal elements highlighted in the movie.

Noreen further warned that she would pursue legal action under international law if Chaudhry Aslam’s legacy was misrepresented. “Chaudhry Aslam’s bravery and sacrifices for this country are globally recognized, and it is unacceptable to distort his legacy in such a manner,” she said.

With “Mera Lyari” set to release next month, the film is positioned as an alternative narrative to the one portrayed in Indian cinema, intensifying the ongoing cultural and political discourse between the two nations.