Renowned Pakistani actor Zahid Ahmed has publicly condemned the reality show Lazawal Ishq, alleging that it promotes obscenity and reflects a “dangerous mindset” in its production.
Speaking on a podcast, Zahid said he could not support any concept that undermines Pakistan’s cultural and moral values. He revealed that his concerns began when the show was first announced, and although Ayesha Omar hosts it, he chose not to approach her about it, saying he does not know her personally and disapproves of the project.
The actor further claimed that the show’s producers deliberately bypassed PEMRA regulations by releasing it on YouTube instead of television. According to him, the creators tried to present the show as Pakistani despite its allegedly un-Islamic and inappropriate content, which he believes is part of a “hidden agenda” to misrepresent Pakistan internationally.
The show, which premiered its first episode on September 29, has drawn widespread backlash online, with viewers accusing it of promoting indecency. While Ayesha Omar defended the project, insisting it is not a dating show, social media users have demanded a ban.
In response, PEMRA clarified that because Lazawal Ishq airs exclusively on YouTube, it does not fall under its regulatory authority.
