Sharjeel Memon criticises Indian film over portrayal of Lyari

KARACHI: Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has criticised the Indian film Dhurandhar, describing it as another example of what he termed negative propaganda by India’s film industry against Pakistan, particularly Karachi’s Lyari area.

In a post on X, Memon said Lyari should not be linked with violence, adding that the neighbourhood symbolises culture, peace, talent and resilience. He said the area’s positive identity has been repeatedly ignored in such portrayals.

Sharjeel Memon said an upcoming Pakistani production, Mera Lyari, scheduled for release next month, would present the locality’s “true face” as one of peace, prosperity and pride.

Released on December 5, Dhurandhar has triggered widespread debate on social media in Pakistan, with users either mocking the film or calling it a propaganda-driven narrative.

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The movie is based on the Lyari gang war and centres on an Indian spy, played by Ranveer Singh. It also depicts the late gang leader Rehman Dakait, portrayed by Akshaye Khanna. Rehman was killed in a 2009 police encounter led by then SSP East Chaudhry Aslam, whose role is played by Sanjay Dutt in the film.