Tue, 21-Oct-2025

Salman Shahid responds to critics of his role in “Barzakh”

Salman Shahid responds to critics of his role in “Barzakh”

Actor Salman Shahid discusses his career, life lessons, and controversy surrounding “Barzakh”. The backlash to “Barzakh” faded after the show’s end, but Shahid believes criticism was excessive. The actors clarified they were not promoting any agenda and emphasized the show was a platform for constructive criticism. Salman Shahid, a legendary actor who has dedicated 50 … Read more

Fawad Khan Faces Persistent Boycott Calls from Fans

Fawad Khan

Fawad Khan is a renowned Pakistani actor. He has faced backlash for his latest project, Barzakh. Critics suggest Khan should apologize for his role choices. Fawad Khan, a celebrated Pakistani actor known for his roles in hit dramas such as Humsafar, Zindagi Gulzar Hai, and films like Khuda Kay Liye, has recently been embroiled in … Read more

Salman Shahid reflects on the profound realities of life

Salman Shahid reflects on the profound realities of life

Salman Shahid has over five decades of acting experience. He is known for his roles in theatre, films, and television. Recently portrayed a central character in the series “Barzakh”. Salman Shahid, a veteran actor with a career spanning over five decades, has excelled in theatre, films, and television, effortlessly immersing himself in every character he … Read more

Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar addresses Maria B’s controversy over Barzakh

Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar addresses Maria B’s controversy over Barzakh

He recognized Pakistani writer and producer for his drama “Gentleman.” Addresses controversies and social matters, including the ongoing Barzakh controversy. Supports Maria B’s cause, stating she’s working to preserve religious and social values. Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar, a renowned Pakistani writer and producer, has garnered admiration for his recent drama serial “Gentleman”. He is currently … Read more

Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar Supports Maria B’s Stand Against Barzakh

Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar

Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar is a Prominent Pakistani writer and producer. Khalil Ur Rehman is known for hit TV dramas and films. Qamar is discussing viral social issues, including the Barzakh controversy. Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar, a prominent Pakistani writer and producer known for his numerous hit television dramas and films, is currently at the … Read more

Director Asim Abbasi Addresses Removal of ‘Barzakh’ from YouTube

Asim Abbasi
  • Asim Abbasi is the director and producer behind the series ‘Barzakh.’
  • He stressed that the safety of the cast of the show is more important.
  • Asim also thanked fans for their support.

Asim Abbasi, the director and producer behind the series ‘Barzakh,’ has shared his thoughts following the decision to pull the show from YouTube in Pakistan amid public controversy. He stressed that the safety of everyone involved in the production is his top concern, saying, “No story of mine is worth more than the safety of all the beautiful and talented artists who came together to craft it. So this decision is really for the best.” Asim also thanked fans for their support, adding, “For all those who have showered us with love, I hope you enjoy the finale! And remember, stories never die.”

 

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The choice to remove ‘Barzakh’ from YouTube in Pakistan was made jointly by the teams from Zindagi and ‘Barzakh,’ in response to the heated debates and criticisms about the show’s content since it premiered two weeks ago. The final episode is set to air tonight at 8 pm, and viewers in Pakistan have until August 9 to catch up on the series on YouTube.

Zee Zindagi expressed their gratitude to their audience through an Instagram post. They acknowledged the support for ‘Barzakh,’ stating, “We, at Zindagi and Team Barzakh, extend our heartfelt thanks to our global audience for their unwavering support. The show was meant to bring people together, but given the current sentiment in Pakistan, we’ve decided to voluntarily withdraw it from YouTube Pakistan as of August 9, 2024. This decision reflects our commitment to honoring our audience while avoiding any feelings of alienation. We truly appreciate your understanding and continued support. Thank you.”

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Makers of ‘Barzakh’ Takes of the Show From Youtube Pakistan

Barzakh
  • The makers of “Barzakh” recently faced controversy.
  • Barzakh has sparked widespread debate.
  • The show stirred controversy with its queer theme.

Zee5 and Zee Zindagi, known for featuring Pakistani content, have recently faced controversy with their series Barzakh. While previous shows like Abdullahpur Ka Devdas and Mrs & Mr Shamim enjoyed positive responses, Barzakh has encountered significant backlash due to its depiction of queer themes.

In recent days, Barzakh has sparked widespread debate, with many viewers expressing discomfort over the show’s portrayal of queerness and its potential impact on younger audiences. This criticism has largely focused on concerns about normalizing queer themes in media and the influence of such content on children.

In response to the backlash, both Zee Zindagi and the Barzakh team have decided to remove the series from YouTube Pakistan.

They have acknowledged and thanked the fans who supported the show, stating their commitment to respecting their audience’s preferences. The series will be taken down from YouTube starting August 9th, while the finale is set to air today.

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Youtuber Raja Zia Ul Haq Calls Out Nadia Khan Over her ‘Barzakh’ Review

Barzakh
  • Barzakh generated a lot of buzz due to Sanam and Fawad’s reunion.
  • The show has drawn criticism for its portrayal of queer themes.
  • Nadia Khan shared her thoughts on Barzakh.

Barzakh features a stellar cast including Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, M. Fawad Khan, and Salman Shahid, and is directed by Asim Abbasi. The series has generated a lot of buzz due to the much-anticipated reunion of Sanam and Fawad. Despite the excitement, the show has drawn criticism for its portrayal of queer themes, its interpretation of Barzakh, and its bold content, sparking a range of opinions from viewers.

Nadia Khan, one of the vocal supporters of Barzakh, shared her thoughts on why she believes the series is worth watching. However, her praise was met with backlash from some quarters.

 

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In response, Raja Zia ul Haq created a detailed video critique, addressing Nadia Khan’s comments. He argued that the show misrepresents the concept of Barzakh, particularly the idea that people can return after death or that there’s a distinct afterlife realm. Raja Zia ul Haq disagreed with Nadia’s perspective and found the show’s portrayal to be fundamentally incorrect.

He also took issue with Nadia Khan’s view that the series’ adherence to international standards, rather than PEMRA regulations, added to its appeal. Raja Zia ul Haq shared his concerns about this standpoint and expressed his criticisms in his video response.

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Rubina Ashraf Speaks Out in Favor of ‘Barzakh’ amid Controversy

Barzakh
  • “Barzakh,” the newest web series, sparked online discussion.
  • The show has come under fire for its portrayal of queer themes.
  • Rubina Ashraf shared her thoughts on “Barzakh.”

“Barzakh,” the newest release by Zee5 and Zee Zindagi, has sparked quite a discussion. Directed by Asim Abbasi and starring notable actors like Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, M Fawad Khan, and Salman Shahid, the show has come under fire for its portrayal of queer themes. This bold approach has not sat well with many viewers, leading to a wave of criticism. While some in the industry have voiced their disapproval, others argue that the entertainment industry should be free to explore all types of stories.

Veteran actress Rubina Ashraf, who has an impressive history in the drama industry and also reviews shows, recently shared her thoughts on “Barzakh” during an appearance on “Subh Saveray Samaa Ke Saath.” Offering a balanced perspective, she defended the drama by drawing parallels with other controversial yet impactful shows.

Rubina highlighted that Pakistani dramas have a history of addressing taboo subjects. She mentioned successful dramas like “Udaari” and “Mayi Ri,” which tackled difficult topics like incest. Rubina emphasized that dramas often reflect societal realities rather than creating them. In her view, “Barzakh” is simply another drama portraying a different aspect of reality, and it’s up to the viewers to decide how they engage with the content and protect themselves from the difficult truths it may reveal.

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Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed Face Backlash Over ‘Barzakh’ Controversy

Fawad Khan

Fans Boycott Actors Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed for Barzakh Series. Khan is known for his diverse roles in Pakistani cinema and Bollywood. Despite the backlash, Barzakh continues to stream, sparking debate and discussion. In an unexpected twist, fans have initiated a boycott against popular actors Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed following the release of … Read more

Islamic Speaker Raja Zia Ul Haq Talks About ‘Barzakh’

Islamic Speaker

“Barzakh” is a Pakistani drama series directed by Asim Abbasi. The drama features a cast including Sanam Saeed, Fawad Khan, Salman Shahid, and Eman Suleiman. Raja Zia Ul Haq, an Islamic speaker, criticized the show for its content. The drama series “Barzakh”, features a Pakistani cast including Sanam Saeed, Fawad Khan, Salman Shahid, and Eman … Read more

Sanam Saeed faces backlash for supporting “Barzakh”

Sanam Saeed faces backlash for supporting “Barzakh”

“Barzakh” is a YouTube series featuring Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Salman Shahid, Mohammad Fawad Khan, and Sajid Hasan. Critics argue the series has crossed lines with its queer themes and sexual content. Sanam Saeed, who plays The Mountain Baby, explains her attraction to the series and her reaction to criticism. “Barzakh”, the latest series streaming … Read more

Fawad Khan Faces Backlash as Public Demands Cancellation Over Barzakh

Fawad Khan
  • Fawad Khan is one of Pakistan’s most renowned stars.
  • Currently, he’s starring in Asim Abbasi’s Barzakh.
  • Fawad is facing criticism for his recent choices in roles.

Fawad Khan is one of Pakistan’s most renowned stars with an impressive global presence. He first made a name for himself as the lead singer of the band EP before making a memorable shift to acting with his debut in Khuda Ke Liye. Since then, Fawad has been a part of numerous successful projects, solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor. He had a notable stint in Bollywood, where his performances were well-received, but he was later banned from the Indian film industry. Since then, Fawad has primarily focused on Indian-backed projects, including his role in Khoobsurat.

Currently, he’s starring in Asim Abbasi’s Barzakh, where he plays Sheheryar. The show is a deep dive into themes of love, loss, and mental health, and also tackles queer issues. This latest role follows his portrayal of a gay character in the Bollywood film Kapoor & Sons.

Despite his accomplishments, Fawad is facing criticism for his recent choices in roles and projects. His involvement in Barzakh and previous roles have sparked controversy, leading to a significant backlash online. Responding to his choice of roles, Many social media users took to X platform and shared their opinions. One wrote, “Fawad Khan and his obsession with LGBTQ project,” Another wrote, “He needs to be canceled, everyone should boycott him.” While he remains a major figure in Pakistani cinema, the debate surrounding his career choices continues to stir strong reactions from the public.

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Maria B Criticizes Barzakh for Promoting Inappropriate Content

Barzakh
  • The new series “Barzakh” is directed by Asim Abbasi.
  • The queer themes of the show generated controversy.
  • Maria B has weighed in on the debate.

The new series “Barzakh,” directed by Asim Abbasi and featuring Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Salman Shahid, and others, is stirring up conversation with its LGBTQ theme and unfolding narrative. However, it’s the show’s incorporation of queer themes that has generated considerable controversy.

Maria B, a prominent designer and activist known for her firm stance on social issues, has weighed in on the debate. She has long been vocal about her concerns regarding the promotion of LGBTQ themes in media and its impact on society, especially children. In her recent comments on “Barzakh,” Maria B has criticized the series for allegedly promoting LGBTQ agendas, normalizing pre-marital sex, and including themes that she believes could be interpreted as sexual grooming of minors.

She referenced a past statement by Fawad Khan about the gradual acceptance of gay love through media, arguing that such acceptance is unlikely. Maria B has vowed to continue opposing these narratives to protect young audiences from what she views as inappropriate content.

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Asim Abbasi Defends LGBTQ Storylines in ‘Barzakh’ Despite Viewer Criticism

Asim Abbasi
  • “Barzakh” is a new series directed and written by Asim Abbasi.
  • Abbasi brings together a star-studded cast.
  • Barzakh has faced criticism from some viewers.

“Barzakh,” a new series directed and written by Asim Abbasi, is making waves in the entertainment world. Known for his work on the film Cake and the web series Churails, Abbasi brings together a star-studded cast including Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Muhammad Fawad Khan, Khushhal Khan, Uzma Beg, and Salman Shahid. The series is set against the stunning backdrop of northern Pakistan.

So far, three episodes of Barzakh have been released on YouTube. The first episode has achieved 2.6 million views, while the second and third episodes have garnered around 1 million and 586,000 views, respectively. This viewership is comparatively low given the high ratings of other Pakistani dramas like Jaan Nisar, which can reach 6 million views in just six hours. This discrepancy has raised eyebrows, particularly given the show’s strong cast and the success of Zindagi Gulzar Hai.

Recently, Barzakh has faced criticism from some viewers who believe the show promotes LGBTQ themes in a way that clashes with their values. One fan took to social media, urging a boycott and accusing Abbasi of glorifying LGBTQ issues. Abbasi responded by defending his creative choices, suggesting that those uncomfortable with queer storylines should avoid his content. He emphasized his commitment to telling diverse stories and highlighted that his team stands firmly behind their portrayal of LGBTQ characters.

This controversy has led to a significant backlash, with some fans choosing to boycott the series based on their religious beliefs and views on LGBTQ representation.

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Pakistani Viewers Criticize Barzakh for LGBTQ Agenda

Pakistani Viewers

“Barzakh” Series directed by Asim Abbasi, known for “Cake” and “Churails.” Cast includes Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Muhammad Fawad Khan, Khushhal Khan, Uzma Beg, and Salman Shahid. Public criticism for bold narrative and LGBTQ agenda promotion. “Barzakh,” a series directed and written by Asim Abbasi, known for his film “Cake” and the web series “Churails,” … Read more

Sanam Saeed steals the hearts on ‘Barzakh’ screening in France

Sanam Saeed
  • Sanam Saeed is an actress with boundless skill and grace.
  • She is caught wearing brazen attire to Series Mania festival screening of Barzakh.
  • he wore a black velvet sleeveless jacket with gold and silver embroidery.

Sanam Saeed, an actress with boundless skill and grace, has been working hard to promote her web series Barzakh with the dashing Fawad Khan. She is recently caught wearing brazen attire to the Series Mania festival screening of Barzakh in Lille, France.

She wore a black velvet sleeveless jacket with gold and silver embroidery on the flared shoulders and neckline, along with a beige silk pleated skirt and bandeau top. For the promotion of their hard work on an international stage, the series’ directors and other cast members were there in addition to Sanam. Fawad Khan, however, was unable to attend.

Have a look:

A family drama called Barzakh centres on an old man who is looking for love. It examines fathers’ and sons’ generational trauma. The story is set in a magical universe filled with paranormal creatures and strange occurrences that show the chasms between life, death, and rebirth.

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Khushhal Khan receives backlash for his latest poster of ‘Barzakh’

Khushhal Khan
  • Khushhal Khan, a young Pakistani actor, is creating a stir in the media.
  • In the previous year, he made his acting debut in Midsummer Chaos.
  • His poster of  ‘Barzakh’ has come under fire for its indecency.

Khushhal Khan, a young Pakistani actor, is creating a stir in the media. Presently, the great actor is enthralling fans with his portrayal in the well-liked drama series Wehshi. In the previous year, he made his acting debut in Midsummer Chaos. Since then, he appears to have extended his wings and is showing no signs of slowing down.

He has become one of the most in-demand performers in the entertainment world as a result of his riveting and captivating on-screen performances. He has developed a reputation for creating unique performances that connect with audiences thanks to his exceptional acting abilities and adaptability.

He most recently appeared in Barzakh, a Zee Zindagi original series with a stellar ensemble that includes Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed. Nonetheless, the series’ promotional poster has come under fire for its indecency. Khushal is shown in the poster lying face down and shirtless, with a girl seated on his back.

 

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Many people have expressed their displeasure at the objectification of the actor’s body in response to the poster on social media.

In terms of work, Khushhal has already worked in Qissa Meherbano Ka and the acclaimed telefilm Aik Hai Nigar.

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Fawad Khan & Sanam Saeed’s new web series ‘Barzakh’ Poster revealed

  • The Barzakh poster by Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed has been revealed.
  • Barzakh will make its debut in the showcase’s International Panorama.
  • The series was filmed in Pakistan’s scenic Hunza Valley and Karachi.

The Barzakh poster by Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed has been revealed. The lone South Asian selection at Series Mania this year is the upcoming Zee 5 web series. Asim Abbasi, who won critical acclaim for his work on Cake and Zindagi’s first Pakistani original “Churails,” is the director of Barzakh.

As previously reported, Barzakh will make its debut in the showcase’s International Panorama, a 12-title competitive segment, where it competes for the public and student jury prizes for best series, director, actress, and actor.

The series was filmed in Pakistan’s scenic Hunza Valley and Karachi. A single parent who is overcome with guilt about something he has lost will be portrayed by Fawad Khan. Fawad said this about the show: “Coinciding with our Series Mania premiere, our poster that we now reveal to the world offers an early glimpse into what can be expected from the series – abstract beauty and ambiguity that reflects the complexities in navigating human relationships in a post-modern world.” The lead female role is played by Sanam Saeed.

Sanam said about Barzakh, “It is a beautiful piece of storytelling and our premiere at Series Mania demonstrates that this is content befitting of an international audience, transcending geographical, cultural and lingual barriers.”

According to the director of the series, “Love and memory are both central thematic components of ‘Barzakh.’ We wanted a visual that represented love in its eternal manifestation but, which like memory, also had a fleeting, ephemeral quality about – like time slipping by and evaporating around us, leaving behind a distant but vivid memory of the moment it all began.”

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Khushal Khan criticized by fans on his poster from webseries

Khushal Khan

Khushal Khan is a Pakistani actor and model. He recently participated in a unique Zee Zindagi production called Barzakh. His single ad for the webseries is inappropriate. Khushhal Khan is a recent television and cinema actor from Pakistan. After entering the entertainment industry, he has been in numerous dramas. As a skilled actor, Khushal consistently … Read more

Sanam Saeed Exudes Elegance in Traditional Jora

Sanam Saeed

The actress wore a traditional jora. Sanam Saeed was seen in a variety of stunning ensembles from Saira Shakira. Sanam Saeed will make her acting comeback in the upcoming web series Barzakh. Everyone is enthralled by the stunning and skilled actress Sanam Saeed‘s most recent social media posts. The actress wore a traditional jora and … Read more

Fawad Khan & Sanam Saeed film ‘Barzakh’ to have world premiere

Fawad Khan
  • Series Mania Festival only selects “Barzakh” film from South Asia.
  • Barzakh features Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed.
  • Heartthrob Fawad Khan plays a single parent who struggles with guilt.

The single selection from South Asia for this year’s Series Mania Festival will be a Pakistani film series starring the nation’s favourite on-screen duo, Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed. Heartthrob Fawad Khan plays a single parent who struggles with guilt in the television series Barzakh. Sanam Saeed also appears in the drama, which centres on a tale of love, grief, and reunion. The series was shot in the gorgeous Hunza Valley and features family drama, magic realism, and cinematic scenes that depict the mystic world.

Barzakh will be screened at the Series Mania Festival as part of the International Panorama line-up, competing for the audience and student jury awards as well as best series, best director, best actress, and best actor.

Asim Abbasi, a Pakistani-British director, expressed his excitement over the choice and described Barzakh as a family drama set in a universe with strange creatures and paranormal activities.

Abbasi described it as a project that was near and dear to his heart, and he stated that its selection at the French Film Festival reflected our faith in the narrative, which is now ranked among the greatest in the world. He also praised Barzakh for being the only South Asian television serial to be broadcast worldwide.

Because the idea for the series’ plot came to Shailja Kejriwal during the pandemic, she referred to it as a product of the Covid brain.

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Talk of the town

Talk of the town

Mr. & Mrs. Shameem’s trailer lauded by fans Mrs. & Mr. Shameem, the ZEE5 original series previously titled Mann Jogi, is all set to release March 11 globally. And with the trailer out, the anticipation has only sky-rocketed, fans and TV buffs were delighted to see Saba Qamar and Nauman Ijaz as an unconventional lead … Read more