‘Build our roads with your profits’: Lyari’s demand to Dhurandhar makers

Karachi: Residents of Lyari have gone viral on social media after demanding a share of the box office earnings from Dhurandhar: The Revenge, with many calling for funds to be used for local development such as road construction and public welfare.

The demand gained attention after a video capturing locals’ reactions circulated widely online. In the clip, residents argue that since the film draws heavily from Lyari’s identity, environment and real-life struggles, the community should benefit financially from its success. Some suggested that up to 70–80 per cent of the film’s earnings should be allocated to the area, while others called for at least a significant portion—running into hundreds of crores—to improve infrastructure.

The film, directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, reportedly crossed Rs 1,000 crore globally. It follows the story of an Indian intelligence officer infiltrating gang networks in Lyari, using the locality as a central setting in its narrative.

Residents emphasised that the film’s authenticity and impact were closely linked to Lyari’s real conditions, pointing to issues such as damaged roads and lack of basic facilities. The viral video reflects both frustration and hope, with some locals expressing that even partial financial support could significantly improve living conditions in the area.

The situation has also triggered a broader discussion about the ethics of storytelling, particularly whether communities portrayed in films should receive tangible benefits when their realities contribute to a project’s commercial success.

As the debate continues to gain traction online, there has been no official response from the filmmakers or producers regarding the demands raised by Lyari residents.