A Mother’s Approval Over Public Criticism
Renowned Pakistani actor and television host Ayesha Omar has addressed growing criticism of her new reality show Lazawal Ishq (Eternal Love). The show, recently released on YouTube, has triggered debate online, with many users calling for it to be banned.
However, Omar said that the opinion she values most is her mother’s. In a statement shared on Instagram, the actor explained that her mother not only watched the first episode but also praised it, describing it as “interesting and different.” For Omar, this parental support outweighs any negative remarks circulating on social media.
“My mother liked Lazawal Ishq, and for me, that is what truly matters,” Omar said.
Why the Show Sparked Controversy
The program entered the spotlight even before its premiere. Soon after the teaser was released, several online commentators branded it “immoral,” urging authorities to restrict its broadcast. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), however, clarified that the show does not fall under its jurisdiction. Since Lazawal Ishq is hosted on digital platforms rather than licensed television channels, PEMRA has no mandate to regulate its content.
This regulatory gap reflects a broader trend in Pakistan, where online streaming content has been growing but remains less strictly monitored compared with traditional television. In recent years, several web-based productions in the country have courted controversy, raising questions about digital freedom and cultural norms.
A Different Perspective from the Audience
While criticism has been loud on some corners of the internet, Omar emphasized that not all responses have been negative. Her mother, for instance, found the show refreshing because it highlights how young people in Pakistan think about love, relationships, and life choices.
According to Omar, her mother appreciated the balanced and healthy discussions in the program, noting that it provided an honest insight into contemporary youth culture. She even expressed enthusiasm about watching upcoming episodes, something that holds special significance for Omar.
The actor recalled how it took her mother years to warm up to her hit comedy drama Bulbulay, despite its widespread popularity. In contrast, her mother enjoyed Lazawal Ishq from its very first episode, which Omar considers a meaningful personal victory.
Encouraging Fans to Engage
Alongside defending her work, Omar encouraged viewers to watch the first episode before forming an opinion. She invited audiences to share constructive feedback that could help improve future installments.
“We put a lot of thought into this project. I hope people see the effort and engage with it before dismissing it,” Omar noted.
This call for dialogue suggests that Omar is open to refining the show based on audience input, rather than simply dismissing criticism outright.
Reality Shows in Pakistan: A Growing but Contested Genre
Reality television remains a relatively underdeveloped format in Pakistan compared to drama serials, which dominate the industry. However, platforms like YouTube and other social media outlets have given celebrities new freedom to experiment.
Lazawal Ishq appears to be part of this shift, aiming to provide unscripted conversations on topics often avoided in mainstream television. Yet, cultural conservatism continues to fuel debates about what should and should not be discussed publicly.
In this climate, Omar’s stance reflects a balancing act: she is defending her creative choices while also positioning her show as a meaningful, family-friendly exploration of relationships.
Looking Ahead
For now, Ayesha Omar seems undeterred by the backlash. She insists that she will focus on supportive voices, especially her mother’s, as she continues with the project.
Her response highlights a broader conversation about artistic freedom in Pakistan’s digital entertainment scene. It also underscores how personal validation, especially from family, can matter more to artists than online criticism.
Whether Lazawal Ishq will win over skeptics remains to be seen. But Omar’s confidence suggests she is determined to pursue her vision, regardless of the controversy.
