Controversy Surrounds Dhurandhar Franchise Amid Pakistani Backlash
Dhurandhar Franchise Faces Criticism in Pakistan
Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar series has ignited significant controversy in Pakistan, with various ministers and political figures condemning the espionage thriller for its portrayal of Lyari. In response, the Sindh Government produced a film titled Mera Lyari to counter the narrative presented in the Hindi blockbuster. Recently, following the release of Dhurandhar 2, Pakistani journalist Arif Ajakia stated at a journalism summit that the film's depiction was entirely accurate. He identified himself as Indian, citing his parents' origins from Junagadh, Gujarat, rather than engaging in the political discourse between India and Pakistan.
Approval of Lyari's Representation
Pakistani Journalist Endorses Dhurandhar's Portrayal
During the Talk Journalism event in London, Arif Ajakia shared his insights with host Saurabh Dwivedi, revealing, “I served as the mayor of a Karachi town during the time Dhurandhar was produced. Having been born and raised in Lyari, I can confirm that everything depicted is true.” He emphasized his Indian heritage, stating, “Although I was born in Karachi, my roots are in Gujarat, and I identify as Indian.”
Dhurandhar's Ban in Pakistan
Dhurandhar Faces Ban in Pakistani Theaters
The Dhurandhar series has been officially banned in theaters across Pakistan and the Gulf region. Nevertheless, audiences in neighboring countries have accessed the film through pirated copies and streaming on Netflix. Upon its release in 2025, viewers noted striking similarities between the actual Lyari and the film's set, which were widely appreciated.
Mera Lyari's Disappointing Performance
Mera Lyari Fails to Impress
In December 2025, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced the project Mera Lyari as a counter to the negative portrayal of the area in Dhurandhar. He promoted the film on social media, asserting that it would showcase the true essence of Lyari, highlighting its culture and resilience. However, upon its release, Mera Lyari performed poorly at the box office, reportedly selling only 22 tickets, while the Dhurandhar franchise grossed over Rs 3000 crore worldwide.
Cast of Dhurandhar
Star-Studded Cast of Dhurandhar 2
Dhurandhar 2 features a talented cast including Ranveer Singh, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Danish Pandor, Rakesh Bedi, Sara Arjun, Sanjay Dutt, Manav Gohil, Gaurav Gera, Udaybir, among others. Produced by B62 Studios and JioStudios, the film was released in Hindi on March 19, following the first installment's debut on December 5, 2025, which also starred Akshaye Khanna as Rehman Dakait.