Zindagi, a popular entertainment channel, has made a surprising move by withdrawing its latest series, Barzakh, from YouTube Pakistan. The decision comes in the wake of intense public criticism and debate surrounding the show’s content.
Barzakh, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Asim Abbasi, had been generating buzz since its release, but it also sparked significant controversy due to its exploration of sensitive and taboo topics, particularly queer love. Zindagi’s Barzakh delved into uncharted territories of Pakistani television, pushing the boundaries of intimate, mature content and, most specifically, homosexuality. The series, a bold exploration of complex human relationships, ignited a firestorm of debate and criticism upon its release. While many viewers were captivated by the show’s “one of a kind” narrative and performances, others found its content to be deeply offensive and inappropriate for a platform accessible to a wide Pakistani audience.
Despite being produced by an Indian production house, audiences felt that Barzakh was explicitly targeted at the Pakistani market with an agenda embedded deep within its narrative, and this, with a predominantly Pakistani cast and crew. This made the show particularly resonant with viewers, intensifying both its praise and condemnation. The inclusion of homosexuality as a central theme proved to be a lightning rod, with supporters championing it as a courageous step towards inclusivity and a reflection of society’s complexities. On the other hand, critics strongly argued that the show’s portrayal of same-sex relationships was a blatant violation of Islamic values and principles, accusing it of normalizing homosexuality in Pakistani society.
In a statement on Zindagi’s Instagram account, Zindagi and the Barzakh team expressed their gratitude to the global audience for their support. They acknowledged the challenges posed by the current climate in Pakistan and made the decision to withdraw the show to avoid further alienation.
“We, at Zindagi and Team Barzakh, extend our heartfelt gratitude to our global audience for their unwavering support for Barzakh – a show that was created to bring people together everywhere. But in light of the current public sentiment in Pakistan, we have made the decision to voluntarily withdraw Barzakh from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024. This decision underscores our dedication to honouring our audiences without causing alienation,” the statement read.
Shailja Kejriwal Said Something About Barzakh:
Earlier show producer Shailja Kejriwal had this to say about Barzakh and joint collaborations between Pakistan and India.
Pakistani show “Barzakh”, producer Zindagi’s Shailja Kejriwal says her “ultimate desire” is to see writers and artists from India and Pakistan on the sets together. After all, the way forward for the industry to flourish is to be “more open and inclusive”.
Shailja Kejriwal While Speaking To PTI
To read full interview, click here.
Here’s How The Audiences Respond!
The removal of Barzakh has ignited a heated conversation about censorship, freedom of expression, and the evolving landscape of Pakistani media. Supporters of the show argue that it was a bold attempt to address marginalized voices and promote inclusivity. Critics, on the other hand, contend that the show’s content was inappropriate and offensive to the cultural and religious values of the country.
Here’s how the audiences are responding to this news:
The Supporters Are Coming Out In Support Of Team Barzakh
While The Critics Are Taking A Sigh Of Relief
Barzakh is produced by Waqas Hassan and Shailja Kejriwal. The series stars Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed Fawad M Khan, Khushhal Khan, Emaan Suleman, Salman Shahid, and Sajid Hasan, among others. The series finale will air on August 6, 2024.
Tell us if you were watching Barzakh.
