Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed-starrer ‘Barzakh’ sparks calls for boycott for promoting homosexuality

Last updated on August 1st, 2024 at 09:09 am

After opening up to rave reviews earlier this month, Pak show Barzakh starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed has landed in some deep trouble over its depiction of homosexuality. The show that was earlier appreciated for its wonderful cinematography is now facing boycott and a steady viewership decline. It’s now being called all in one fitnah.

The show’s director, Asim Abbasi is standing on his word though. His words are pretty clear, those who find the words offensive should refrain from watching the show. He commented, “If you find queer/non heteronormative storylines distasteful, please do not watch my content.”

Calls for Boycotting Barzakh

The debate started after a scene featured actor Fawad Khan almost kissing an Italian character Lorenzo played by Franco Giusti. The show is facing a boycott call as its in contrast to Islamic values.

Social media users want the show to be taken off air requesting PEMRA, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority and the Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to look into the matter and take strict action. Actor Mishi Khan has also shamed the cast for not following Islamic values. 

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Critics Comments

Designer Maria B criticised the cast and show saying that “If God doesn’t agree with it, how do the makers of the show?”, she went on to add, “the biggest haraam concepts of Zina, Igtv, Qom e Lut and Child Grooming are all glamorised shamelessly in this show.”

Many renowned critics like sociologist and professor Nida Kirmani hit back at Maria B stating, “Art is not made for close minded people like yourself. Stick to reading religious scriptures and watching religious videos on Youtube”, she wrote.

Others also said that abusing or torturing women is highly accepted in Pakistani dramas, lines are only being drawn when queer narratives are depicted.