Ayesha Omar responds to criticism as ‘Lazawal Ishq’, faces online backlash

ISLAMABAD: Film and TV star Ayesha Omar’s upcoming show Lazawal Ishq has gone viral on social media – but not for the reasons its producers might have hoped.

Marketed as Pakistan’s first reality show based on love, the promo sparked heated debate, with some likening it to Desi Love Island and others calling for a complete ban on it.

The promo, shared on the show’s official Instagram page, opens with Omar in a red gown as she welcomes viewers to a luxurious villa on Istanbul’s Bosphorus. Clips show glimpses of the contestants – mostly unfamiliar faces – getting ready to take part in the show.

But the reaction was swift and divisive. One Instagram user mocked the format as “Cupid’s Cash Grab”, while another said: “Have some decency, committing a sin is one thing and advertising it is another!”

On X (formerly Twitter), some users even called for the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) to ban the show.

Defending the show

Not all reactions were negative. A section of social media users called the outrage hypocritical, saying that the same critics consume foreign dating shows on platforms like Netflix without any issues.

However, Omar dismissed the criticism as premature speculation. Speaking to Gulf News, he said that many questions will be answered after the show ends.

She clarified that Lazawal Ishq is not inspired by Love Island, nor is it just a dating show. “This format is in line with our culture, norms and values. In our society, eternal love leads to the sacred union of marital relationship – and that is what the show is going to end.”

Turkish roots and filming details

Omar revealed that Lazawal Ishq is an official adaptation of a popular Turkish reality show, Aşk Adası, which is backed by a Turkish production company.

The host began shooting for the film in Istanbul about 10 days ago and will remain there for another month. Although she was not directly involved in the casting, Omar confirmed that Pakistani contestants — both boys and girls — are part of the show.

PEMRA clarification

On Tuesday, PEMRA issued a clarification following public complaints. The authority stressed that it has no jurisdiction over the show, as Lazawal Ishq will air exclusively on YouTube, not on any licensed TV channel.

“PEMRA rules apply to PEMRA-licensed TV channels. This program is not being aired on any PEMRA-licensed TV channel,” the statement said.

First for Urdu audience

Furthermore, Omar described the project as “a first of its kind for Pakistani and Urdu-speaking viewers worldwide.”

She confirmed that the Urdu version will follow the global format where participants will compete as couples, ultimately resulting in a winning pair. “For its Urdu iteration, they needed an Urdu-speaking host, and I am truly grateful that I was selected from among many candidates,” he said.

Lazawal Ishq is expected to premiere on YouTube soon, with anticipation – and controversy – only growing.