The massive box-office success of Dhurandhar: The Revenge has triggered an unexpected cross-border controversy, with residents of Lyari demanding a share in the film’s earnings. The demand comes after the film, starring Ranveer Singh, crossed ₹1,000 crore globally, drawing global attention to the Karachi neighbourhood that serves as a key backdrop in the story.
The issue gained momentum after several videos surfaced online showing locals claiming that the film’s narrative and setting were heavily inspired by Lyari. Residents argued that since the film used the area’s identity, struggles, and environment as part of its storyline, the community should receive financial benefits from its commercial success.
Some locals went as far as suggesting that 70 to 80 percent of the film’s earnings should be allocated for the development of Lyari. The demands were framed around the need for improved infrastructure, including better roads, public facilities, and basic services. One resident reportedly stated that meaningful development in the area could only happen if financial resources linked to the film were redirected towards local welfare.
Lyari, a densely populated locality in Karachi, has long been associated with socio-economic challenges, including poor infrastructure and limited access to basic amenities. Residents emphasised that the global spotlight brought by the film should translate into tangible improvements for the community.
The controversy has opened up a broader debate on whether communities depicted in films—especially those portrayed with elements of realism—should have any claim over the financial success generated from such representations. While filmmakers often draw inspiration from real locations and events, the question of compensation or benefit-sharing has rarely been raised so prominently.
Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar: The Revenge follows the journey of an Indian intelligence officer navigating the complex underworld networks of Lyari. The narrative blends action, espionage, and drama, presenting a fictionalised account set against a backdrop inspired by real-world locations.
The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi, and Sara Arjun. The sequel has continued the success of the franchise, building on the strong performance of the original film, which reportedly earned around ₹1,300 crore worldwide.
Despite the growing attention, there has been no official response from the filmmakers or production team regarding the demands raised by Lyari residents. The silence has further fuelled online discussions, with opinions divided across social media platforms.
Supporters of the residents’ demands argue that filmmakers often profit from real-life stories and locations without contributing back to the communities they depict. They believe that a portion of the revenue could be used for social development, especially in underprivileged areas.
On the other hand, critics of the demand point out that films are works of fiction and creative expression. They argue that while inspiration may be drawn from real places, it does not automatically entitle those locations to financial compensation. According to this perspective, enforcing such expectations could create challenges for storytelling and creative freedom in the film industry.
The debate also touches upon larger issues of representation and ownership. As global cinema increasingly explores real-world narratives and locations, questions are being raised about ethical storytelling and the responsibilities of filmmakers toward the communities they portray.
Some experts suggest that while direct revenue-sharing may not be practical, filmmakers could consider alternative ways to give back, such as community development initiatives, collaborations, or investments in local infrastructure. Such approaches could help bridge the gap between creative storytelling and social responsibility.
The situation has also sparked political and cultural discussions, particularly given the cross-border context involving an Indian film and a Pakistani locality. It highlights how cinema, beyond entertainment, can influence perceptions, identities, and even socio-economic debates.
As Dhurandhar: The Revenge continues its strong run at the global box office, the demands from Lyari residents show no signs of fading. Whether the filmmakers choose to respond or not, the controversy has already succeeded in bringing attention to the locality and its challenges.
Ultimately, the issue raises important questions about the intersection of art, commerce, and social responsibility. While there may be no clear precedent for such demands, the debate itself reflects evolving expectations from audiences and communities in an increasingly interconnected world.
