Pakistan is set to respond to India’s spy thriller Dhurandhar with its own film, Mera Layari, aiming to portray the true story of Lyari, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced. The move comes amid criticism that Dhurandhar, set in Karachi’s Lyari, misrepresents Pakistan, echoing what officials describe as “negative propaganda” by the Indian film industry.
Mera Layari is intended to highlight Lyari’s peace, prosperity, and pride, countering the dramatized portrayal seen in Dhurandhar. While plot details remain under wraps, the film is scheduled for release next month.
The cast includes notable actors such as Ayesha Omar, Dananeer Mobeen, Samiya Mumtaz, Nayyar Ejaz, Trinette Lucas, Paras Masroor, Adnan Shah Tipu, and Shoaib Khan. Abu Aleeha of Taxali Gate serves as both writer and director of the film.
The controversy surrounding Dhurandhar escalated recently when the film was reportedly blocked from release in several Gulf states due to its anti-Pakistan narrative. This follows similar steps taken against films like Fighter (2024), which depicted a dramatized version of India’s 2019 airstrikes in Pakistan.
In addition, a supporter of the Pakistan Peoples Party filed an application in a Karachi district court against Dhurandhar’s director, producer, and cast.
The complaint alleged unauthorized use of the party’s flag, footage from rallies, and the likeness of former chairperson Benazir Bhutto. The complainant claimed that the film portrayed the PPP as sympathetic to terrorists in its trailer.
With Mera Layari, Pakistan aims to reclaim the narrative and present an authentic depiction of Lyari, emphasizing the community’s resilience and vibrancy rather than violence and conflict.
The film is expected to draw attention not only as a cultural response to Indian cinema but also as a statement of national pride. Officials hope the movie will counter misconceptions and provide audiences with a more balanced and accurate view of the region.
