KARACHI ( The COW News Digital )The teaser of Ayesha Omar’s upcoming reality show “Lazawal Ishq” has set social media ablaze, drawing sharp criticism from viewers who are demanding that the show be banned before it goes on air.
“Lazawal Ishq,” being marketed as Pakistan’s first dating reality show, will reportedly feature 100 episodes and is being compared to the popular international formats like Bigg Boss and Love Island. The teaser reveals that four men and four women will live together in a lavish villa where their day-to-day lives and emotional interactions will be recorded.
While many netizens have criticized the format as “against cultural values,” Ayesha Omar defended the show’s concept, explaining in the teaser that the purpose is to showcase the search for a life partner and the emotional trials that come with that journey.
Some critics claim that the show is a copy of the famous Turkish reality series “Aşk Adası” (Love Island) and accuse its creators of importing “foreign culture” to Pakistan. Others argue that this is an unnecessary experiment that does not align with local norms.
The backlash escalated to the point where users tagged the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), asking it to block the program.
In response, PEMRA issued an official clarification stating that “Lazawal Ishq” is not scheduled for broadcast on any television channel but will be released only on social media platforms such as YouTube. The authority further added that because it will be streamed online, it does not fall under PEMRA’s jurisdiction or its content regulations.
This clarification has sparked fresh debate, with some people expressing relief that it will not be on mainstream television, while others remain concerned about its influence on young viewers.
With 100 episodes planned, “Lazawal Ishq” is expected to generate continued controversy as it rolls out. Whether it manages to attract a loyal audience or succumbs to public backlash remains to be seen.
