Ayesha Omar’s dating show sparks boycott trend, PEMRA issues response
By Muhammad MubashirPublished On 17 Sep 2025
Actor Ayesha Omar’s dating reality show titled Lazawal Ishq has come under heavy fire on social media following the release of its first teaser. The teaser sparked widespread criticism, with users launching boycott campaigns and urging the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to impose a ban.
In response to the public backlash, PEMRA issued a clarification stating that the show is being streamed exclusively on social media platforms and does not fall under PEMRA’s regulatory domain.
The teaser revealed that Lazawal Ishq will feature four men and four women living together in a luxurious villa, with all their activities being recorded. Ayesha Omar, seen in the teaser enjoying scenic views and entering a lavish bungalow in Turkey, explained that the show revolves around the search for eternal love and the emotional trials that come with it.
Inspired by the popular Turkish reality series Aşk Adası (Love Island), Lazawal Ishq aims to introduce the dating competition genre to Urdu-speaking audiences for the first time. The format is reminiscent of Western shows like Love Island and Too Hot to Handle.
The show, which will air exclusively on YouTube, is expected to run for approximately 100 episodes. Contestants will face a variety of games, challenges, alliances, and conflicts, culminating in the selection of a “winning couple.”
However, the format has stirred intense debate online. Some social media users have labeled the show as "immoral" and have demanded a boycott, while others have appealed to PEMRA to take action against it. But there are a few who are also rooting for the show.
Internet personality Qaiser Ahmed Raja had also taken to his X account to ask for a boycott of the show, calling it “immoral online content”. He has also written an application to the chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to stop the show from getting aired.
Addressing the controversy on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, PEMRA clarified that despite receiving public complaints, the show does not fall within its scope of authority as it is not broadcast on any licensed television channel, but only on digital platforms. Therefore, PEMRA regulations do not apply.
