Dhurandhar, the Bollywood spy thriller starring Ranveer Singh, has ignited a firestorm of debate in Pakistan, causing a significant disruption in the established narrative and sparking widespread discussion online. Released on December 5, 2025, the film, loosely based on the Lyari gang wars in Karachi, has been accused of disseminating propaganda and distorting facts, leading to a strong backlash from Pakistani audiences and authorities.
The movie’s plot centers on an Indian spy who infiltrates Karachi's criminal underworld, specifically the Lyari gang, during the period of 1999-2009. This has reportedly offended authorities in Sindh, who claim that the film misrepresents the town's culture, peace, and resilience. The Sindh Information Department has announced a counter-film, "Mera Lyari," to showcase the "authentic story of pride and prosperity" of the area, expected to be released in January 2026.
The controversy surrounding "Dhurandhar" has resonated deeply within Pakistan, prompting many to voice their opinions on the portrayal of their country. Some Pakistanis have expressed frustration with their own entertainment industry for allegedly failing to tell their own stories, leading to external narratives dominating the cinematic landscape. Content creator Bilal Hassan stated the movie was well made but he couldn't ignore the anti-Pakistan dialogue. He also said that the issue isn't the politics, it is ownership.
Critics of "Dhurandhar" argue that it perpetuates a stereotypical image of Karachi as a chaotic and violent city. They contrast the film's depiction with the reality of the city's vibrant culture, music, and the warmth of its people. This sentiment is echoed by BBC Asian Network journalist Haroon Rashid, who presented a video contrasting the movie's chaotic scenes with the Karachi he experienced, highlighting its food, music, and everyday life.
However, "Dhurandhar" has also achieved commercial success in India and among the Indian diaspora. Despite the fictional nature of the film, it incorporates real-time intercepted audio recordings of attacks on Indian soil and news footage, which some analysts believe contribute to its impact. The film has drawn parallels to real-life individuals, such as the character of Ajay Sanyal, inspired by India's current NSA Ajit Doval, and Rehman Dakait, inspired by Abdul Rehman Baloch.
The backlash against "Dhurandhar" extends beyond Pakistan, as the movie has been banned in all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. These countries cited the film's "inappropriate" and overtly anti-Pakistan narrative as the reason for the ban. This ban highlights a growing awareness of how cinematic propaganda can impact regional tensions and reflects a sensitivity to South Asian geopolitics.
The controversy surrounding "Dhurandhar" highlights the power of cinema to shape perceptions and influence narratives. While the film has achieved commercial success, it has also sparked critical conversations about representation, propaganda, and the responsibility of filmmakers in portraying sensitive geopolitical issues. The incident has intensified the existing online arguments between India and Pakistan. It remains to be seen how the "Mera Lyari" film will be received and whether it will succeed in countering the narrative presented in "Dhurandhar".
