Controversy Leads to Withdrawal of Queer Drama 'Barzakh' from YouTube Pakistan

Channel Zindagi announced the voluntary withdrawal of the series 'Barzakh' from YouTube Pakistan due to backlash over its depiction of queer love. Starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, the series faced criticism for allegedly promoting an LGBTQIA+ agenda, leading to its removal effective August 9, 2024.

Channel Zindagi has announced the voluntary withdrawal of the series 'Barzakh' from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024, following backlash over its depiction of queer love.

'Barzakh,' starring prominent actors such as Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, premiered on YouTube and ZEE5 on July 19. Despite its global success, the show has faced significant criticism in Pakistan for allegedly promoting an LGBTQIA+ agenda.

Director Asim Abbasi and the team at Zindagi expressed their gratitude to global audiences but emphasized their decision was made to respect public sentiment in Pakistan. The backlash highlights ongoing societal tensions around LGBTQIA+ representation in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)