The Indian web series Barzakh is not resonating well with Pakistani viewers, despite featuring top Pakistani actors such as Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Muhammad Fawad Khan, Khushhal Khan, Uzma Beg, and Salman Shahid. Viewers claim the series promotes many themes which contradict Islamic teachings.
The show’s viewership has been declining with each episode. The first episode attracted 2.2 million views, the second 776,000 views, and the third 288,000 views. Many Pakistanis express that the series fails to resonate with them due to its controversial portrayal of certain themes.
Barzakh Writer Respond to The Backlash:
Recently, a fan texted the writer and director of “Barzakh,” criticizing him for glorifying LGBTQ content. The fan’s message stated, “Please don’t add more to the fire by saying he ‘chose’ Saifu. They’re asking to boycott the show, and you’re giving them more reasons to do it. Glorifying these characters in the name of art is distasteful. It was wrong in Churails, it’s wrong here.” Writer Asim Abbasi responded, “With all due respect, if you find queer/non-heteronormative storylines ‘distasteful,’ please do not watch my content. Thank you.” He also tagged the Barzakh team, asserting their commitment to telling LGBTQ stories.
Barzakh is facing significant public backlash for its bold narrative. Viewers are upset with the Pakistani actors involved, feeling that the series openly promotes explicit themes, which they see as conflicting with Islamic principles.
The series also faces criticism due to the participation of Indian creators. Fans suspect that these creators are intentionally advancing themes similar to those featured in their own dramas and films. There is concern among fans that if Pakistani creators continue collaborating with Indian counterparts, Pakistani dramas might suffer a decline similar to Indian dramas.
