“I will never endorse any idea, any show that promotes vulgarity"
Zahid Ahmed criticised reality show Lazawal Ishq, calling it vulgar and against Islamic values during his appearance on Excuse Me with Ahmad Ali Butt.
Known for being selective with his roles, the actor’s comments in the interview have sparked discussion online and across different communities.
When asked by host Ahmad Ali Butt if there was anything he would never endorse, Zahid replied:
“I will never endorse any idea, any show that promotes vulgarity like Lazawal Ishq.”
He added that he had tried to find out who produced the show, saying:
“I have tried asking people but nobody knows who has produced it.”
Zahid described the programme as having an “evil agenda” and said its concept of helping contestants find love goes against Islamic principles.
Zahid said his objections against Lazwal Ishq started when the show was announced.
Despite Ayesha Omar hosting the programme, he did not question her about it, noting that he does not view Lazawal Ishq positively and does not know her personally.
Zahid also alleged that the producers deliberately avoided airing the show on television to bypass PEMRA regulations, releasing it instead on YouTube.
Zahid argued that while the show features Pakistani hosts and contestants, the makers tried to give it a “Pakistani identity” even though its content does not align with the country’s moral values.
He claimed the show’s concept was designed to misrepresent Pakistan internationally.
Public response to the show has been largely critical.
The first episode premiered on YouTube on September 29, prompting viewers to accuse it of promoting indecency.
Ayesha Omar defended the show, insisting it is not a dating programme. However, after teasers circulated on social media, many users called for a ban.
PEMRA clarified that because the show streams on YouTube, it falls outside its jurisdiction and cannot be banned under current regulations.
The show continues to air on YouTube and in October 2025, one episode sparked backlash for its alleged bold scene.
It showed contestant Junaid comforting fellow participant Jannat during an emotional conversation about his late mother.
As Junaid spoke about his personal loss, Jannat began to cry, leading him to embrace her, kiss her head multiple times, and hold her closely.
This brief interaction was accused of being inappropriate for Pakistani audiences.
During the interview, Zahid also spoke about social media, admitting he “hates it” and “resents it”.
He caused further controversy by claiming the creators of social media platforms will “burn in hell.”
The actor later clarified that he was referring to platform creators, not content creators.
Watch the Full Interview:
Loading ...