Pakistani film Mera Lyari is all set to make its mark on the international stage. The film has been officially selected for screening at the 28th edition of the UK Asian Film Festival, scheduled to be showcased on May 2.
The story follows two young women determined to pursue their football dreams in the tough streets of Lyari. Fierce Afsana defies her authoritarian father, while gifted orphan Kushmala faces a forced marriage. Guided by a one-legged former football captain, they train in secret for a shot at the Pakistan Football League, confronting family, tradition, and fear along the way.
Directed by Abu Aleeha, the film was described by the Sindh government as a response to anti-Pakistan narratives. Initially titled Behnaz, it was renamed Mera Lyari following the release of the Indian film Dhurandhar, after which it gained significant media attention.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon condemned Dhurandhar for portraying Lyari as a conflict-ridden zone, stating that Lyari represents culture, peace, talent, and resilience, not violence.
The film stars Ayesha Omar, Dananeer Mobeen, Summaya Mumtaz, and Nayyar Ejaz, alongside Adnan Shah Tipu and other talented Pakistani actors. The film also marks the acting debut of Dananeer Mobeen and is set for a nationwide release across Pakistan on May 8.
The 28th UK Asian Film Festival takes place between May 1 and 10, 2026, travelling across London and other UK cities. Mera Lyari represents a proud moment for Pakistani cinema on the world stage.
