Residents of Lyari in Pakistan have demanded a share of the box office earnings from Dhurandhar: The Revenge, with some even calling for up to 80 per cent of the film’s revenue to be allocated for local development. The demand comes after the Ranveer Singh-starrer crossed Rs 1,000 crore globally, drawing attention to the Karachi neighbourhood that inspired its story.
In videos circulating online, locals argued that since the film used Lyari’s name and backdrop, the community should benefit financially. One resident remarked that infrastructure, particularly roads, could only improve “if India pays”, while others suggested that hundreds of crores should be redirected towards public welfare in the area.
Read Full StoryWhy are Lyari residents asking for a share?
The demands stem from the belief that Dhurandhar capitalised on Lyari’s identity and circumstances. Residents pointed to the area’s poor infrastructure, highlighting damaged roads and lack of facilities, and argued that the film’s commercial success should translate into tangible benefits for the community.
“Aditya Dhar ji, attention please…”
Dhurandhar 2 has earned over 1000 crore
so far. Now, people of LYARI are demanding a 50% share for their development.
Pakistan govt is not developing Lyari despite getting billions in loans from US and IMF. pic.twitter.com/gVaHP3R39W— Suraj Kumar Bauddh (@SurajKrBauddh) March 27, 2026
Some locals estimated that 70–80 per cent of the earnings would be a fair share, claiming the story’s authenticity and impact were rooted in Lyari’s real-life setting.
What is Dhurandhar: The Revenge about?
Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film follows an Indian intelligence officer navigating gang networks in Lyari. The narrative traces his rise within the underworld while executing a covert mission. The ensemble cast includes Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi and Sara Arjun.
The sequel has sustained the franchise’s momentum, following the original film’s Rs 1,300 crore global haul.
Has there been any response from the makers?
So far, neither Aditya Dhar nor the producers have issued an official statement addressing the demands. The calls from Lyari residents, however, continue to gain traction online as the film’s earnings grow.
The situation has sparked wider conversations around representation, ownership and whether communities portrayed on screen should share in the financial success of films inspired by them.
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Published By:
Ritika Srivastava
Published On:
Mar 29, 2026 10:17 IST