“What did they use the money for?”
Pakistani cinema has faced a significant blow as the highly anticipated film Mera Lyari failed spectacularly at the box office.
Reports suggest that the production sold only 22 tickets across the entire country on its opening day.
This dismal turnout occurred on May 8, 2026, despite immense pre-release marketing and hype for the project.
Cinema owners reacted quickly to the lack of interest by pulling the movie from screens.
The film was originally marketed as a homegrown rival to the popular Indian franchise known as Dhurandhar.
However, it seems the local audience was not convinced by the cinematic execution of this new action project.
Directed by Abu Aliha, the film boasted a very recognisable and talented cast of popular Pakistani actors.
It featured stars such as Ayesha Omar and the famous social media sensation known as Dananeer Mobeen.
Other cast members included the respected performer Samiya Mumtaz as well as the actress Trinette Lucas.
The story followed the lives of girls in Lyari as they fought against conservative and traditional mindsets.
Despite this relatable premise of female empowerment, the narrative failed to engage viewers in the theatre.
Online critics were quick to express their deep disappointment through various social media channels and review platforms.
One reviewer on X pointed out a severe lack of pace and a missing cinematic flair, saying:
“I am sitting in the cinema watching Mera Lyari. It feels like a 2 hour long play rather than a movie.”
The same viewer praised the acting and visuals but noted significant flaws within the final script.
“Excellent cinematography and acting. Good plot but bad storytelling, full of sluggish moments.
“The director should understand the difference between a TV play and a movie for the cinema.”
Questions have also been raised about the financial backing provided by the regional government for the production.
Reports indicate that the Sindh government may have provided 9 crore rupees for the film’s development.
Another user on X questioned the final quality of the production relative to its massive reported budget, asking:
“You mean to tell me Sindh gov gave them 9 cr to make Mera Lyari?
“Everyone who’s watched the film is saying it looks like it was made in somebody’s damn basement.”
The user asked a pointed question about where the substantial funds had actually been spent by the crew.
“What did they use the money for?”
Much of the hype surrounding the film was tied to the popularity of the Indian spy series Dhurandhar.
Director Aditya Dhar’s franchise depicts an Indian spy who successfully infiltrates various dangerous gangs within Lyari.
This portrayal has caused many mixed feelings among the actual residents of the historic and vibrant town.
The controversy regarding the town’s image in foreign media prompted the creation of Mera Lyari.
However, the film has now become a target for mockery and trolling on various digital social platforms.
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