The boycott campaign against the Indian serial “Barzakh,” which featured a Pakistani cast and artists, has successfully achieved its objective. Initially, there was significant excitement among Pakistani drama fans for “Barzakh.”
However, this enthusiasm quickly turned to disappointment once the series was released and its content came under scrutiny.
“Barzakh” became a focal point of controversy due to its depiction of homosexuality, adultery, and explicit content, particularly in its early episodes.
The series, which is categorized as a fantasy drama, delves into a philosophical concept where the soul resides in a transitional realm called “Barzakh” after death, before the final resurrection.
The show controversially portrays a romantic relationship between two men and includes scenes where children overhear sexual sounds, which parallel their mother’s own experiences.
The depiction of such content triggered a nationwide backlash in Pakistan. Public outrage was evident through the widespread boycott campaign, with social media platforms witnessing trending hashtags such as “No Obscenity” and “No Barzakh.”
The drama faced criticism not only from viewers but also from showbiz personalities, who joined the public in condemning the series for its perceived inappropriate content.
In response to the substantial public discontent, Zindagi Official, the platform airing “Barzakh,” issued a statement addressing the situation.
Acknowledging the strong sentiments expressed by Pakistani viewers, Zindagi announced that “Barzakh” would be withdrawn from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024.
This decision was made to align with the views of the Pakistani audience and to demonstrate respect for their cultural and social values.
Zee Five representatives, who manage Zindagi, also released a formal statement. They expressed deep gratitude to the global audience for their continued support of “Barzakh,” a show intended to bridge cultural divides and unite people.
However, recognizing the current public sentiment in Pakistan, they decided to voluntarily remove “Barzakh” from YouTube Pakistan.
This decision underscores their commitment to respecting their viewers’ concerns and engaging with them in a manner that considers their values and preferences.
I am a dynamic professional, specializing in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conflict Management and Resolution, and International Relations. My expertise is particularly focused on South Asian Conflicts and the intricacies of the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific Politics. With my skills as a Content Writer, I serve as a bridge between academia and the public, translating complex global issues into accessible narratives. My passion for fostering understanding and cooperation on the national and international stage drives me to make meaningful contributions to peace and global discourse.
