After months of delays, Pakistani sports drama Mera Lyari is set for its global premiere, marking its debut at the UK Asian Film Festival before its release in Pakistan.

The film will screen on May 2 at the British Film Institute (BFI) in London, with executive producer Ayesha Omar describing the moment as bringing “the spirit of Lyari” to an international audience, according to Gulf News.

The project has been positioned by its creators as a response to India’s negative portrayals of Karachi’s Lyari neighbourhood in Indian cinema, particularly in contrast to films such as Dhurandhar.

At its core, Mera Lyari follows the story of two young women pursuing football in challenging circumstances, using sport as a path towards opportunity, independence and self-determination.

The film focuses on themes of resilience and community, shifting away from narratives centred on crime and violence in the area.

Ayesha Omar, who also plays a lead role, said in a social media post that the film presents Lyari and its women as “raw, real and unapologetically authentic.”

The cast includes Dananeer Mobeen, Samiya Mumtaz, Nayyar Ejaz, Paras Masroor, Adnan Shah Tipu, Shoaib Hassan, and model Trinette Lucas, who makes her film debut.

The story follows a disabled football coach, played by Omar, who returns to Lyari to conduct trials for local girls.

She meets Afsana (Mobeen), who defies her strict father, and Kushmala (Lucas), who is trying to escape a forced marriage. Together, they train in secret with hopes of competing at the national level.

Director Abu Aleeha said the film was shot in Lyari with a largely local cast, adding that around 80% of the actors, including supporting roles and football players, are from the area.

The film has also drawn political attention, with Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon previously describing it as a response to negative portrayals of Lyari in Indian films.

By focusing on sport and determination, Mera Lyari aims to reshape international perceptions of the neighbourhood and highlight untold stories of its residents.