“You should be ashamed."
Pakistan’s entertainment industry is stepping into uncharted waters with Lazawal Ishq, the country’s first-ever reality dating show.
The series, hosted by celebrated actress Ayesha Omar, has already triggered controversy, even before its official release online.
Filmed entirely in Istanbul, Lazawal Ishq introduces eight contestants, split evenly between men and women, who will share a luxury villa.
Across 100 planned episodes, their romantic journeys, clashes, alliances, and eventual victories will unfold for viewers in real time.
The format, clearly inspired by global hits such as Love Island and Too Hot to Handle, represents a radical shift for Pakistan.
Unlike conventional television dramas, the show promises a blend of unscripted storytelling, competitive challenges, and raw human emotions.
To navigate Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) restrictions, producers confirmed the show will premiere on YouTube rather than television.
This move not only allows more creative freedom but also ensures access for Urdu-speaking audiences across Pakistan and the diaspora.
The project has stirred sharp debate, with many questioning whether a dating show aligns with Pakistan’s cultural and social values.
Concerns around intimacy, wardrobe, and on-screen dating remain, yet the trailer has already drawn more than 1.3 million views online.
Supporters argue that the show reflects evolving entertainment trends and could provide a refreshing alternative for younger audiences.
Critics argue the format clashes with Pakistan’s cultural values, raising concerns about intimacy, attire, and portrayals of dating on screen.
Among the loudest voices of opposition is actress Mishi Khan, who publicly rebuked both Ayesha Omar and the contestants.
She asked: “You should be ashamed. Sorry to say, Ayesha, what are you trying to prove?”
Turning her criticism to participants, she added: “All you contestants, you’re going to return to Pakistan eventually.
“What are you going to do there? Read books together?”
Speaking about her role, Ayesha Omar admitted the unconventional premise attracted her because it blended novelty with mass entertainment appeal.
She emphasised that the choice of host required someone fluent in Urdu, with credibility and recognition to connect with viewers.
Omar also acknowledged the backlash but insisted that the show was meant to entertain and experiment with new storytelling formats.
She said:
“It’s about love in all its forms, the tensions, the bonds, the heartbreaks, and finally the winning couple.”
The show’s visuals underline its ambition, featuring sweeping shots of the Bosphorus and a villa complete with a glittering pool.
The cast features Pakistani participants whose personal dynamics will anchor the show, ensuring a connection with local and diaspora audiences.
Despite fierce debate, the buzz around Lazawal Ishq highlights a growing appetite for experimental formats in Pakistan’s entertainment ecosystem.
Whether audiences embrace or reject it, the dating show will mark a turning point for Urdu reality programming in the digital space.
With Ayesha Omar at the helm, the experiment could redefine boundaries of what Pakistani viewers expect from entertainment.
Watch the Trailer:
Loading ...