Pakistan announces film ‘Mera Lyari’ in response to Indian film Dhurandhar

KARACHI: The Pakistani government has announced the release of its own film, “Mera Lyari”, next month, aiming to counter the negative portrayal of Pakistan, particularly the Lyari area, in the Indian film ” 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 the social media platform X, Memon asserted, “Lyari is not a symbol of violence, but a place of culture, peace, capability, and courage.” He said that “Mera Lyari” will showcase the true spirit of the area, highlighting its peace, prosperity, and pride, in stark contrast to the image painted by the Indian film.

The film is expected to present a positive narrative, offering a glimpse of the area’s resilience and the untold stories of its people, thus challenging the stereotypes often associated with Lyari.

NOREEN ASLAM TAKES LEGAL ACTION OVER DHURANDHAR

Meanwhile, Noreen Aslam, the widow of martyred Sindh Police officer Chaudhry Aslam, has expressed her outrage over the negative depiction of her husband’s character in the Bollywood film. Chaudhry Aslam, renowned for his heroic efforts against terrorism, is portrayed in the movie in a way that Noreen believes misrepresents both his services and Pakistan’s reputation.

Speaking to a private news channel, Noreen condemned the film’s portrayal, stating, “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 questioned the film’s focus on the Lyari area and the exaggerated role of Rehman Dakait, an infamous gangster, saying that her husband had devoted his life to fighting dangerous terrorists, not to the criminal elements the film highlights.

She made it clear that if any false or damaging narrative is presented about Chaudhry Aslam’s character, she would pursue legal action against the film’s directors and screenwriters under international law. “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 hit theaters next month, the film promises to offer an alternative narrative to the one being portrayed in Indian cinema, further intensifying the ongoing cultural and political discourse between the two nations.