Fawad Khan-Sanam Saeed's Show Barzakh Causes Uproar In Pakistan, Taken Down From YouTube; Here's Why

After 12 years of drought, one of the most adored on-screen couples Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed reunited in their supernatural thriller show ‘Barzakh’ They were last seen together in the hit Pakistani romance drama ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ stirring audiences with their passionate chemistry. ‘Barzakh’ gained global recognition after being launched on Zee 5 and YouTube on July 19, 2024.

Despite its massive success and fan’s excitement towards seeing Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed together, the show was taken down from YouTube. Keep reading to know the real reason behind the act.

Fawad Khan-Sanam Saeed's Show Barzakh Taken Down

The Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed-led fantasy drama television show ‘Barzakh’ made waves after the on-screen couple’s much-awaited reunion. However, it has been taken down from YouTube in Pakistan due to its representation of queer love, resulting in a series of critical comments and unprogressive remarks.

The makers of the show and Zindagi channel confirmed in a joint statement on their Instagram saying, “We, at Zindagi and Team Barzakh, extend our heartfelt gratitude to our global audience for their unwavering support for Barzakh - a show that was created to bring people together everywhere.”

It added, “But in light of the current public sentiment in Pakistan, we have made the decision to voluntarily withdraw Barzakh from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024. This decision underscores our dedication to honouring our audiences without causing alienation. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support."

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The controversy seemed to have brewed after Fawad Khan and fellow actor Franco Giusti almost kissed. Pakistani audience backlashed while Asim Abbasi revolted in a tweet, saying, “With all due respect, if you find queer non-heteronormative storylines distasteful please do not watch my content."

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Queer Representation In Indian History

There is nothing fresh about queerphobia in South Asian countries like India and Pakistan. While India seems to accept it by walking baby steps since Section 377 was read down to decriminalise homosexuality and openly produce queer content, Pakistan may still be lagging.

Image courtesy: Facebook

What makes such unprogressive mindsets in these countries laughable is their rich history of queer romances and characters. From suspected romances between ruler Alauddin Khalji and his slave Mallik Kafur to Abu Nuwas, an Arab poet in 700-800 BC, writing openly about homosexuality, India has a deep sea submerged beneath colonial rule. Further, a Rigveda proverb "Vikriti Evam Prakriti" which translates to "what appears abnormal is also natural," supports queer relationships. In the 2nd century text, Kama Sutra, lesbians were called "Swarinis" who married each other and raised kids. Additionally, constructed in the 12th century, Madhya Pradesh’s Khajuraho temple roofs sensual figurines representing India’s profound history of sexual fluidity and candour.

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