Fawad Khan, one of Pakistan’s most beloved actors, is at the center of a new controversy as his latest series “Barzakh,” has been pulled from YouTube Pakistan. Despite its star-studded cast and intriguing plot, the supernatual drama faced sever backlash for its portrayal of LGBTQ themes, leading to its removal. Dive in to read what this show is about, and why the Pakistani audience decided to pull it off air.
What is ‘Barzakh’ all about?
“Barzakh” is a supernatural drama series that reunites Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed after their popular show “Zindagi Gulzar Hai.” The six-episode series, released on July 19, 2024, is produced by Waqas Hassan and Shailja Kejriwal for Zindagi, the Indian subcontinent-focused programming block on ZEE5 Global. Directed by Asim Abbasi, known for “Churails” and the Oscar-entry film “Cake,” the show premiered to positive reviews at Series Mania last year.
Set against the picturesque Hunza Valley in Pakistan, the story follows a reclusive 76-year-old man who invites his estranged family to his remote resort for his wedding to the ghost of his first love. The series delves into deep themes such as mental health, postpartum depression, generational trauma, gender inclusivity, and the impact of folklore on human experience.
The Controversial “Near Kiss” Scene
The controversy erupted when an episode featured a near-kiss between the male leads, played by Fawad Khan and Franco Giusti. This scene sparked a wave of criticism. With some viewers accusing the series of promoting a hidden LGBTQ agenda and distorting Islamic concepts. One viewer called the series “filled with vulgarity, LGBTQ, and promoting Illuminati and Jewish Kabbalah magic.” While another accused “Barzakh” of normalising a hidden LGBTQ agenda under the guise of drama.
Decision to Remove ‘Barzakh’
Director Asim Abbasi responded to the backlash by reiterating the show’s themes. And advising those who find queer storylines distasteful to avoid his content. He tweeted, “With all due respect, if you find queer non-heteronormative storylines distasteful please do not watch my content.”
However, Zindagi announced the show’s removal on Instagram, thanking the global audience for their support of “Barzakh.” The statement read, “In light of the current public sentiment in Pakistan, we have decided to voluntarily withdraw ‘Barzakh’ from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024. This decision underscores our dedication to honoring our audiences without causing alienation.”
Despite the controversy, Abbasi confirmed that the final episode would still air as planned on August 6. He wrote, “#barzakh Yes, the finale still airs tonight.”
‘Barzakh’ and Beyond
“Barzakh” has ignited an important conversation about the portrayal of queer themes in Pakistani media. Highlighting the ongoing tension between progressive storytelling and traditional values. While the series will no longer be available on YouTube Pakistan, it remains accessible to international audiences, who continue to support its groundbreaking narrative.
Next Read: “I am a woman”: Olympic Boxer Imane Khelif Addresses Gender Scrutiny
