Lazawal Ishq, Pakistan’s first-ever dating reality show, has become the center of controversy once again. Hosted by Ayesha Omar and filmed entirely in Turkey, the show features four male and four female contestants searching for love in a unique, unscripted setting. However, its bold format and open display of affection have stirred outrage among viewers since the release of its teasers.
The latest uproar began after a scene from episode 14 went viral on social media. In the emotional clip, a contestant named Junaid is seen consoling fellow participant Jannat as she breaks down in tears, missing her mother. The two share a hug, and Junaid is seen kissing her on the forehead. A moment that reignited debate about the show’s boundaries and cultural values.
Social media platforms were flooded with reactions soon after the clip aired. Many viewers called the show “inappropriate” and “against Pakistani culture,”. While others argued that Lazawal Ishq was crossing the line between entertainment and indecency. Some even demanded that the show be banned altogether.
One user commented, “If they want to play siblings, why are they on a dating show?”. Another wrote, “They could have spoken and still maintained a distance”. Others described it as “besaharam ishq”, pointing to what they see as a growing trend of promoting western-style intimacy on Pakistani screens.
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Despite the criticism. A segment of the audience believes that Lazawal Ishq is introducing a modern concept of reality TV that challenges traditional storytelling. They argue that Pakistan’s younger audience deserves diverse entertainment choices and that the outrage reflects resistance to change.
Whether it’s boldness or boundary-pushing creativity, one thing is certain. Lazawal Ishq has sparked a nationwide debate on what’s acceptable in Pakistani television today.
