WEBDESK: After facing severe backlash online, YouTube has officially removed the controversial “Lazawal Ishq”, or “Eternal Love” in Pakistan.
The “Lazawal Ishq” was taken off of the streaming platform after airing 50 episodes but it is still available elsewhere including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, United States of America, Germany, France, United Kingdom.
The format, reminiscent of the British reality hit “Love Island”, pushed boundaries that the local entertainment typically avoids.
“Our programme might not be watchable in Pakistan due to political reasons,” the show posted on its Instagram page.
It advised the Pakistani viewers to use virtual private networks (VPNs) to continue watching.
Ayesha Omar Responds to Calls for Ban on ‘Lazawal Ishq’
When the first episode of actress and host Ayesha Omar’s new reality show Lazawal Ishq was aired, it received mixed reactions online. While some viewers welcomed the show, others demanded it be banned.
Ayesha Omar addressed the criticism in a heartfelt social media post. She revealed that her mother had watched the first episode and enjoyed it. According to Omar, her mother’s approval matters more to her than online criticism.
The actress shared that her mother found the episode “very interesting and different.” She said her mother appreciated how young people expressed their emotions, choices, and opinions in a balanced way.
Omar added that it took her mother years to warm up to her hit sitcom Bulbulay. For this reason, her mother’s early support for Lazawal Ishq was special to her. “Did my mum like the first episode? Bilkulllll! And her opinion and feedback matter the most to me,” she wrote.
Ayesha Omar Invites Viewers’ Feedback
Along with her statement, Omar invited fans to watch the first episode on YouTube and share their feedback. She also spoke warmly about her co-stars. During filming, she said, she grew close to the women working with her and built strong bonds.
Despite her excitement, the show faced online criticism. The show drew strong backlash, and several social media users demanded a boycott of the program.
Calls for Ban and PEMRA’s Response
Following the online uproar, calls to ban Lazawal Ishq spread across digital platforms. Critics argued that the show should not be allowed to run in Pakistan.
In response, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) issued a clarification. The authority explained that since Lazawal Ishq is available only on digital platforms and not on licensed television channels, it does not fall under PEMRA’s direct control.
This statement came after multiple complaints and requests to block the program. The clarification made it clear that PEMRA has no jurisdiction over content released only on YouTube or other digital platforms.
A Balanced Perspective
While the backlash has been strong, many fans continue to support Omar. Her followers praised her confidence in addressing criticism directly. Others agreed with her point that her mother’s opinion carried more weight than negative comments.
The actress emphasized that the aim of the show is to give young people a safe space to share their views. She highlighted that the conversations featured in the program are healthy and respectful.
Omar also expressed excitement about the journey ahead with Lazawal Ishq. She said she looks forward to sharing more episodes and hearing what the audience thinks.
The controversy around Lazawal Ishq shows how new formats often face resistance in Pakistan’s entertainment industry. While the debate continues online, Ayesha Omar remains firm in her support for the show.
For now, the actress stands by her project, stressing that her mother’s approval is all the encouragement she needs.
Also read: “The Devil at Work!” Zahid Ahmed Takes Aim at Content Creators and Lazawal Ishq
