Karachi: Pakistani journalist Arif Aajakia has defended the depiction of Lyari in the blockbuster Dhurandhar franchise, stating that the film’s portrayal accurately reflects the realities of the area where he was born and raised.
Aajakia’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions surrounding the film series, with some critics accusing it of promoting a political narrative, while supporters argue that it is inspired by real events linked to criminal networks and counter-terror operations in Lyari.
Aajakia says film reflects reality
Speaking during an interaction at Talk Journalism 2026, Aajakia recounted his personal experiences growing up in Lyari and said the events and conditions shown in the film closely mirrored reality.
According to Aajakia, he served as a town mayor in Karachi during the period depicted in the film and had first-hand knowledge of the situation in the locality.
He stated that having been born and brought up in Lyari, he could relate to the circumstances portrayed on screen and believed the depiction was truthful.
Discussion over Lyari portrayal
Lyari, one of Karachi’s oldest neighbourhoods, has historically been associated with gang violence, organised crime and security operations. Over the years, the area has frequently featured in discussions related to law enforcement crackdowns and criminal activity.
The portrayal of such issues in Dhurandhar has generated debate among viewers, particularly across social media platforms.
While some audiences have questioned the film’s political undertones, others have argued that the storyline draws from documented incidents and historical developments linked to the region.
Aajakia speaks about his roots
During the discussion, Aajakia also spoke about his family background.
He said he was born in Karachi, while his parents hailed from Junagadh in Gujarat before the Partition era.
Referring to his heritage, he remarked that he considers himself to be of Indian origin despite being born and raised in Pakistan.
His comments have attracted attention online, adding another dimension to the broader debate surrounding the film franchise.
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About the Dhurandhar franchise
The Dhurandhar franchise centres on an Indian undercover intelligence operative navigating criminal and terror networks across international borders.
In the films, Ranveer Singh portrays Jaskirat Singh Rangi, also known as Hamza Ali Mazari, an intelligence operative working under a false identity.
The franchise has emerged as one of the biggest commercial successes in recent years.
The first instalment, Dhurandhar, reportedly grossed more than ₹1,350 crore worldwide following its release. Its sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, further boosted the franchise’s earnings, taking the combined global collection beyond ₹3,100 crore.
The films also feature an ensemble cast including R Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt and Arjun Rampal.
Debate continues online
Aajakia’s endorsement of the film’s portrayal of Lyari is likely to add momentum to the ongoing conversation surrounding the franchise.
As discussions continue, supporters view his comments as validation from someone with direct experience of the region, while critics remain divided over the film’s interpretation of historical and political events.
The debate highlights how cinema inspired by real-world conflicts often sparks differing perspectives among audiences, particularly when it touches upon sensitive geopolitical and social issues.
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