Pakistan’s biggest film, The Legend of Maula Jatt, is set to release in cinemas across China on May 21, 2026. This marks a historic milestone for Pakistani cinema as it becomes the first Pakistani film to get a wide theatrical release in the Chinese market.
Director Bilal Lashari called it “a huge moment for Pakistani cinema and a new door opening for our stories on the world stage.” The film, distributed by China Film Group Corporation and Huaxia Film Distribution, will reach millions of new viewers in one of the world’s largest film markets.
The Legend of Maula Jatt is a Punjabi action drama starring Fawad Khan as Maula Jatt, Mahira Khan as Mukhoo Jattni, Hamza Ali Abbasi as Noori Natt, and Humaima Malick as Daaro Nattni. Released in 2022, it became Pakistan’s highest-grossing movie ever, earning over Rs. 4 billion (around US$14 million) worldwide.
The film is a modern take on the classic 1979 Punjabi story, Maula Jatt. Its grand visuals, powerful action, and strong storytelling won hearts in Pakistan and overseas. Now, its entry into China is expected to boost Pakistan’s film industry and strengthen cultural ties between the two countries through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) spirit.
This release opens new opportunities for Pakistani actors and filmmakers to shine globally. Fans are excited to see Maula Jatt’s story travel from Punjab villages to Chinese screens.
