Nationwide Television Premiere Set for July 31
Pakistani sports drama Mera Lyari is preparing for its television premiere after completing a limited cinema release.
The film will air on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 10pm.
Sindh Films announced the television release through a social media post shared with executive producer Ayesha Omar and director Abu Aleeha.
Viewers will be able to watch the film on several television channels.
The announced broadcasters include Geo Kahani, Express Entertainment, A Plus, Green Entertainment, TV One, Sindh TV, KTN, Khyber and Filmax.
The television premiere will give wider audiences an opportunity to watch the film after its theatrical release in Pakistan.
Mera Lyari combines football, women’s empowerment and the social challenges faced by young people in Lyari.
Football Offers Hope to Young Women in Lyari
The film follows a disabled football coach, played by Ayesha Omar.
She returns to Lyari after escaping an abusive marriage.
After arriving home, she begins organising football trials for girls from the local community.
Her initiative brings her into contact with young women searching for freedom and a better future.
Dananeer Mobeen plays Afsana, a talented girl determined to follow her dreams despite opposition from her strict father.
Trinette Lucas portrays Kushmala, who is attempting to escape a forced marriage.
Both characters find hope through football.
They secretly train under the guidance of Omar’s character and prepare for an opportunity to compete at the national level.
The story presents football as more than a sport.
It becomes a source of confidence, independence and resistance for women facing social restrictions.
The film also explores abusive relationships, family pressure and limited opportunities for young female athletes.
Its cast includes Ayesha Omar, Dananeer Mobeen, Trinette Lucas, Samiya Mumtaz, Nayyar Ejaz, Paras Masroor, Adnan Shah Tipu and Shoaib Hassan.
Local Cast Brings Authentic Lyari Story to Screen
Director Abu Aleeha has highlighted the film’s strong connection with Lyari.
He said around 80 percent of the cast came from the area.
Local football players, supporting performers and lead actor Shoaib Hassan were reportedly selected from Lyari.
The production was also filmed in the neighbourhood to create an authentic setting.
The film aims to present Lyari through the experiences of its residents.
It focuses on community strength, sporting talent and the ambitions of young women.
The Sindh government supported the project as part of an effort to promote a more positive representation of the area.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon previously said the film would show Lyari’s peace, prosperity and pride.
The project also attracted attention because another regional film had presented Lyari through violence and criminal activity.
However, the makers have maintained that Mera Lyari is an independent story based on local experiences rather than simply a response to another production.
Before reaching Pakistani cinemas, Mera Lyari received an international platform.
The film premiered at the UK Asian Film Festival in London in May 2026.
Its screening at the festival introduced the story to overseas audiences before its theatrical release in Pakistan.
The upcoming television premiere is expected to bring the film to a much larger national audience.
