Residents of Lyari have voiced their strong concerns following the blockbuster success of Dhurandhar 2, which recently surpassed the Rs 1000 crore mark at the box office. They are demanding a substantial Rs 500 crore from filmmaker Aditya Dhar, claiming that the film presents their neighborhood in a detrimental light.
The community asserts that the film reinforces negative stereotypes and tarnishes Lyari’s reputation, often depicted as a crime-ridden area in mainstream narratives. They argue that such portrayals can lead to long-lasting social repercussions, affecting how outsiders perceive their community.
Featuring Lyari prominently in its storyline, Dhurandhar 2 stars Ranveer Singh and explores themes of crime, conflict, and espionage, with numerous intense scenes set in the region. Although the film has garnered acclaim for its compelling storytelling and stellar performances, it has ignited discussions regarding its representation of real-life locations.
Residents have expressed their disappointment over the lack of consultation during the filmmaking process. They believe filmmakers bear a responsibility to ensure that real communities are accurately represented rather than exploited for dramatic effect. Their call for compensation goes beyond financial gain, emphasizing the need for accountability and respect toward the communities portrayed.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Dhurandhar 2 continues to thrive at the box office, solidifying its status as one of the highest-grossing films in recent history. This commercial triumph has only intensified discussions about the film’s content and the ethical obligations filmmakers owe to real-world settings.
As the debate continues, there has been no official comment from Aditya Dhar or the production team regarding the residents’ demands. However, the situation has sparked broader conversations within the film industry about the delicate balance between creative expression and social awareness.
The uproar has also elicited reactions from Pakistani influencers, some of whom, despite watching it from abroad, praised the film’s accuracy in naming Karachi’s neighborhoods, while others criticized Dhar’s attention to detail.