The supernatural series Barzakh, starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, has sparked significant controversy in Pakistan for its depiction of queer love. The show, which premiered last month, has faced intense criticism and has now been removed from YouTube in Pakistan.
Fawad Khan & Sanam Saeed's Show Barzakh Removed From YouTube In Pakistan
Released on July 19, 2024, on Zindagi’s YouTube channel and ZEE5, Barzakh quickly garnered attention, both for its storyline and its portrayal of LGBTQIA+ themes. However, due to mounting backlash, the makers announced that the show would be voluntarily taken down from YouTube in Pakistan. The decision was shared via an official statement on Zindagi's Instagram account.
Official Statement from the Makers
In their statement, the creators expressed gratitude to the global audience for their support of the six-episode series. They emphasised that Barzakh was created to unite people and bring different perspectives together. However, given the current public sentiment in Pakistan, they decided to remove the show from YouTube in the country, effective August 9, 2024.
Director’s Response
The show's director, Asim Abbasi, also addressed the issue on social media. Sharing the statement on his handle on X (formerly known as Twitter), he confirmed that the series would still air its finale despite the controversy. He wrote: “#barzakh Yes, the finale still airs tonight."
Controversy Over Queer Representation
The controversy began when a particular scene from the show depicted Fawad Khan's character, Saifullah, and Franco Giusti's character, Lorenzo, in an intimate moment that nearly led to a kiss. This portrayal of queer love ignited a wave of criticism, with many viewers calling for a boycott of the series due to its LGBTQIA+ themes.
Although the show has been removed from one platform, the removal has sparked a wave of responses and reactions from fans and viewers on another platform. Let's explore how Twitter users have responded to the situation.
About Barzakh
Barzakh centres around the story of a reclusive resort owner who invites his estranged children to attend his third wedding. The twist comes when it is revealed that his bride-to-be was believed to have died long ago. The series delves into the complex dynamics within the family, forcing them to confront their past traumas and personal demons.
The show also explores significant themes such as mental health, postpartum depression, generational trauma, and gender inclusivity. Alongside Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, the cast includes Salman Shahid, Eman Suleman, Khushhal Khan, Faiza Gillani, and Anika Zulfikar among others.
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