Tag: asimabbasi

  • ‘Mesmerised, blown away, and proud’: Sanam Saeed on Barzakh

    ‘Mesmerised, blown away, and proud’: Sanam Saeed on Barzakh

    Sanam Saeed always lets her work speak for her. When the actress does speak, she never shies away from saying exactly what is on her mind.

    Though her latest project Barzakh, written and directed by Asim Abbasi, landed in controversy, she has come to its defence. The series attracted a lot of attention due to its incredible cinematography however, its queer-themed content stirred massive controversy, invoking mixed reactions across the region.

    In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Saeed shared her thoughts on the overwhelming response to the web series.
    The Barzakh actress said, “The feedback has been quite overwhelming. Mesmerised, blown away, and proud are just the adjectives that I’ve gotten to hear. People are really overwhelmed, intrigued, curious and have slowly understood that this is not a show that they can just binge-watch. It’s something that they have to really focus on and watch with a lot of attention.”

    Despite the backlash, particularly in Pakistan where Barzakh was removed from YouTube, Saeed remains positive about its impact, especially in India. “It was this really beautiful exchange that happened (through the platform, Zindagi) where people’s eyes were opened up,’ noting how Indian audiences gained new insights into Pakistani culture.”

    Although she hasn’t had an opportunity yet, the actor expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of working in India in the future.

    “I haven’t experienced it, so I can’t say that I miss it because I’ve never gone to India for work. But things will happen one day”, Saeed added.

  • ‘Barzakh’ to be removed from YouTube Pakistan after severe public criticism

    ‘Barzakh’ to be removed from YouTube Pakistan after severe public criticism

    Zee Zindagi’s latest Pakistani project ‘Barzakh’ has been at the center of a heated controversy ever since its release two weeks ago. Written and directed by Asim Abbasi who known for his previous projects ‘Churails’ ‘Cake’, the web series has been accused of promoting queer themes. The show still got over four million views on YouTube in the short while since its release.

    Zindagi has announced that it will remove the Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed venture from YouTube Pakistan starting August 9. In a statement on their official Instagram page, the network thanked fans and explained the reason for the removal:

    “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. But in light of the current public sentiment in Pakistan, we have decided to voluntarily withdraw Barzakh from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024. The decision underscores our dedication to honoring our audiences without causing alienation. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support. Thank You.”

    Asim Abbasi, the writer and director of Barzakh, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his thoughts on the removal:

    “No story of mine is worth more than the safety of all the beautiful, talented artists who came together to craft it. So this decision really is for the best. For all those who have showered us with love, I hope you enjoy the finale! And remember – stories never die.”

    Barzakh’s last episode is set to air on Tuesday night at 6 pm.

  • Nadia Khan praises ‘Barzakh’ for breaking away from traditional saas-bahu dramas

    Nadia Khan praises ‘Barzakh’ for breaking away from traditional saas-bahu dramas

    Asim Abbasi’s Barzakh, with big names including Salman Shahid, Fawad Khan, Mohammad Fawad Khan, and Sanam Saeed, has grabbed all the headlines since its release on Zee Zindagi’s YouTube. Fans can be found online discussing themes and episodes.

    Recently television host Nadia Khan also shared her review. During her show ‘Kya Drama Hai’ on Channel 24,

    Nadia said, “There are five reasons why you should watch the web series ‘Barzakh’. Firstly, it marks Fawad Khan’s comeback after a long time, which is a big deal. Additionally, the pairing of Fawad and Sanam is a hit and it’s been a while since we’ve seen them together. The theme of the series is also unique as it’s an international platform, which means there are no restrictions on language, clothing, or scenes. This makes it a relief for those who are tired of the usual saas-bahu and family dramas. Lastly, the series has a dark and mysterious tone with a murder mystery that will keep you engaged.”

    Here is the link to what Nadia Khan said about Barzakh:

  • ‘If you find queer storylines distasteful, do not watch my content’: Asim Abbasi refuses to censor ‘Barzakh’

    ‘If you find queer storylines distasteful, do not watch my content’: Asim Abbasi refuses to censor ‘Barzakh’

    Director Asim Abbasi sent a clear message to the critics of his web series ‘Barzakh’.
    Asim Abbasi shared a picture of the show on his Instagram story, where a person replied saying, “Please don’t add more to the fire by saying he ‘chose’ Saifu. They’re asking to boycott the show, and you’re giving them more reasons to so it. Glorifying these characters in the name of art is distasteful. It was wrong churails, its wrong here.” 

     
    On which Asim Abbasi, who is also the writer of Barzakh, replied, “With all due respect, if you find queer non-heteronormative storylines distasteful please do not watch my content.”
    Fawad Khan is playing the characters Saifullah and Lorenzo. The statement comes in response to a scene in episode 3 featuring an almost kissing moment between two male characters.
     
    Asim Abbasi tagged the producers of web series with the caption on his story, “Shailja Kejriwal Waqas Ali and I will always champion rights of all, and tell stories that we believe in.”
     
    The main plot of Barzakh is to explore the mysteries of life, the afterlife, and the enduring power of love. Set in the beautiful Hunza Valley, the story follows a 76-year-old recluse who invites his estranged children and grandchildren to his remote valley resort for a special event his wedding to the ghost of his first true love.

  • Iconic duo Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed return in ‘Barzakh’ teaser

    Iconic duo Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed return in ‘Barzakh’ teaser

    The reunion we’ve all been waiting for is here. Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed have teamed up again in ‘Barzakh’, a web series that’s generating massive hype on social media.

    ‘Barzakh’ promises to be an emotional and thought-provoking story that explores the mysteries of life, the afterlife, and the enduring power of love. Set in the beautiful Hunza Valley, the story follows a 76-year-old recluse who invites his estranged children and grandchildren to his remote valley resort for a special event – his wedding to the ghost of his first true love.

    Fawad Khan will play the role of a single parent, while Sanam Saeed will play a mysterious and compassionate character. Sanam has shared the teaser on her Instagram with the caption, “Eyes lined with secrets, ready to reveal the mysteries within. When all else withers, will love endure? Trailer launching on 1st July – are you ready for the journey? #Barzakh, Premieres 19th July on Zindagi YouTube.”

    The teaser shows main characters lining their eyes with kohl. Written and directed by Asim Abbasi, the creator behind Zee Zindagi’s hit ‘Cake’ (Pakistan’s 2018 Oscar submission), ‘Barzakh’ promises to captivate viewers with its unique storyline and stunning visuals.

    Zee Zindagi recently released six striking artistic posters to keep the audience excited.
    Don’t miss out on the emotional journey premiering on July 19th on Zindagi YouTube.