15.10.2025 19:12
Inspired by the Turkish-made format of 'Love Island,' a dating show filmed in a villa with a view of the Bosphorus in Istanbul has stirred controversy in Pakistan. The first episode quickly garnered over 1.1 million views, attracting backlash from conservative groups. The Amun Terakki Party filed a lawsuit, claiming that the program "corrupts society and contains messages contrary to Islam."
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The newly launched dating show "Lazawal Ishq" (Eternal Love) in Pakistan stirred the country's agenda with its very first episode.
ADAPTED FROM A COMPETITION IN TURKEY, FILMED IN ISTANBUL
The show, inspired by the Turkish format "Aşk Adası" (Love Island), was filmed in Istanbul. A total of 8 Pakistani contestants, 4 men and 4 women, stay together in a villa with a view of the Bosphorus, testing their compatibility through various tasks.
UNDER FIRE SINCE ITS PROMOTION
The production team defines the purpose of the concept as "helping participants establish emotional connections and find a lifelong relationship." However, the airing of the show has sparked serious backlash, especially among conservative circles.
The first episode, released on YouTube on September 29, quickly reached over 1.1 million views. However, as soon as the promotional trailer was shared, a wave of intense criticism began on social media. Many users claimed that the show "damages Islamic and social values," while some politicians called on the government to take action regarding the broadcast.
PARTY LEADER FILED A LAWSUIT
The leader of the Amun Terakki Party, Muhammad Faik Shah, filed a lawsuit in the Islamabad High Court, claiming that "Lazawal Ishq" is "corrupting society and contains messages contrary to Islam." Shah stated, "Such content misleads the youth and threatens our cultural identity."
HOST'S DEFENSE: OUR AIM IS TO ESTABLISH A REAL BOND TOWARDS MARRIAGE
The host of the show, Pakistani actress Ayesha Omar, did not remain silent in the face of criticism. Speaking to Dawn and Gulf News, Omar stated that the production has been misunderstood, saying, "This is not a reality show where young people live with unlimited freedom in the same house. Our format is based on an approach that respects Pakistani culture and family values. Our aim is to establish a real bond towards marriage."
THE FUTURE OF THE PROGRAM IS UNCERTAIN
Despite the high viewership on YouTube, discussions about "Lazawal Ishq" are growing. It is currently unclear whether the program will continue airing following the lawsuit process and public pressure.
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