Lazawal Ishq, Pakistan’s new dating show, lands in trouble as demands for boycott rise; watch promo

The show will be hosted by Pakistani actress Ayesha Omar.

New Delhi: Controversy has erupted in Pakistan over a new dating show, ‘Lazawal Ishq,’ even though the show hasn’t even been released yet. The show will be released on YouTube on September 29. In this show, four men and four women will live together in a luxurious villa in Istanbul, Turkey, where their every activity will be recorded on camera. Contestants will participate in various tasks, form friendships, and ultimately, one couple will emerge victorious. 100 episodes will be produced.

WATCH PROMO HERE

Pakistan’s first Dating reality show – “Lazawal Ishq” hosted by Ayesha Omar to be aired soon.

Shot in Turkiye. Why not in Pakistan if its for conservative Pakistani society? Audience won’t accept it I guess. pic.twitter.com/XUFU4zqyEL

— Trusfrated Noona (@KontentChingu) September 15, 2025

Taboo in Pakistan

In Pakistan, dating or having a relationship with a stranger before marriage is considered wrong. Religious groups have declared it un-Islamic, and people have demanded a boycott on social media.

The show will be hosted by Pakistani actress Ayesha Omar. It is filmed in Istanbul and inspired by international shows like ‘Ask Adasi’ and ‘Love Island’.

Social Media boycott

The show’s promo was released on September 15, sparking a campaign like #BoycottLazawalIshq on social media. Ayesha Omar is seen welcoming the contestants in the promo.

It was targeted on social media as ‘un-Islamic’ and a copy of Western culture. Many people said it was against Pakistani and Islamic values.

Some religious groups called it a threat to family values ​​and threatened legal action to stop the show.

What does Pakistani media regulator say?

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) responded to the controversy by stating that ‘Lazawal Ishq’ is not airing on any licensed TV channel, but will be released on YouTube, which is outside its jurisdiction.

PEMRA spokesperson Muhammad Tahir said, “We do not have the authority to regulate YouTube. People are unaware that this content does not fall under our control.”

What did Ayesha Omar say?

Ayesha Omar defended the show, calling it a new and unique initiative for Pakistani and Urdu-speaking audiences. In an interview with Fashion Times magazine, she said that the show is a mix of love, friendship, and competition, which will provide viewers with an emotional and dramatic experience.

Ayesha said, “The show will explore true relationships,” adding that the show is not a copy of ‘Love Island’.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Lazawal Ishq, Pakistan’s new dating show, has landed in deep trouble.
• Controversy has erupted in Pakistan over a new dating show, Lazawal Ishq.
• The show will be released on YouTube on September 29.
• In this show, four men and four women will live together in a luxurious villa in Istanbul, Turkey.

The show will be hosted by Pakistani actress Ayesha Omar. In Pakistan, dating or having a relationship with a stranger before marriage is considered wrong. Religious groups have declared it un-Islamic, and people have demanded a boycott on social media.