Lyari, a borough of Karachi, gained unexpected prominence in India following the success of the ‘Dhurandhar’ franchise. The films, while popular in India, sparked controversy across the border for their depiction of Lyari as a lawless and chaotic area, particularly focusing on the gang activity that plagued the region in the 2000s.

Now, Pakistan is offering its own narrative with ‘Mera Lyari,’ a sports drama aiming to present a different perspective. The film’s trailer has just been released, offering a glimpse into a story of female empowerment through football.

Written and directed by Abu Aleeha, ‘Mera Lyari’ centers on female football players from the historic Karachi borough. Ayesha Omar stars as a football coach who returns to Lyari after escaping a difficult past, including a debilitating injury, ostensibly a result of domestic abuse. She dedicates herself to teaching girls in the area how to play the sport.

The cast includes Dananeer Mobeen and Trinette Lucas, with many local footballers and residents also featured in supporting roles, adding authenticity to the portrayal of Lyari.

The film is backed by Sindh’s Information Department. Sindh Minister of Information Sharjeel Memon has positioned ‘Mera Lyari’ as a direct response to what he considers “negative propaganda” from Indian cinema, specifically citing ‘Dhurandhar’ as an example. He stated that ‘Mera Lyari’ will showcase “the true face of Lyari: peace, prosperity, and pride”.

‘Dhurandhar’, directed by Aditya Dhar, is a spy thriller set in Lyari, starring Ranveer Singh as an Indian spy infiltrating a gang. It portrays Lyari between 2005 and 2022 as a hub of gang activity and smuggling, also depicting the Karachi Police’s Operation Lyari against the gangs in late 2009.

‘Mera Lyari’ is set to premiere at the UK Asian Film Festival, followed by a theatrical release in Pakistan on May 8, offering audiences a contrasting view of the Karachi borough and highlighting a story of hope and resilience.