Tag: barzakh

  • ‘Don’t have to watch it’: Khushhal Khan talks violence in Duniyapur 

    ‘Don’t have to watch it’: Khushhal Khan talks violence in Duniyapur 

     
     
     Actor Khushal Khan has been making a name in the entertainment industry with impressive performances. He last starred in the web series ‘Barzakh’ in which he played the character of young Jaffer.
     
     During an appearance as a guest on Fuchsia Magazine, Khushhal Khan talked about the concerns surrounding his new project, Duniyapur.
     
     The host asked, “This isn’t a matter of concern, but in places where law and order isn’t taken very seriously, we’re showing such a drama that everyone is watching. Discussions have arisen about age ratings and whether it’s appropriate.”
     
     
     
     Khushal replied, “This is something we can discuss, it’s very explicit and has a lot of killings and that kind of content, now that everybody is watching, there’s no telling them to avoid it. Also, kids underage shouldn’t watch it if it’s explicit, if someone is sensitive to it, so it’s okay not to watch. If I had a problem with something, I wouldn’t watch it. I know myself well enough to decide that something isn’t for me.”
     
    He continued saying, “There’s a lot of content available online, and I have easy access to my phone and the internet, but I wouldn’t watch everything. The same goes for everyone else; if they’re sensible enough, they can judge by the trailers and teasers. Families can see the trailers beforehand, its right there in front of them. “
     
    “For every project we do in the future or have done in the past, if someone isn’t comfortable, they don’t have to watch it. Nobody is forcing you to. We would love for you to watch it and enjoy it, but if it makes you uncomfortable, that’s not our intention. Our intention is to entertain, not to make anyone feel uncomfortable”, the actor added.

    Khushhal also highlighted that there aren’t always explicit warnings for content in Pakistani dramas, saying,

    “I don’t think our dramas give those warnings. You know, smoking and alcohol are sometimes shown, and parents have to take control over what their families watch. There are even things that don’t show blood, for example, when a gunshot happens, blood isn’t shown, but that doesn’t make sense. If a bullet is fired, there should be blood.”
     
    “Logical things should be shown, not illogical things. Maybe there should be warnings that this drama has a certain level of violence, so small children shouldn’t watch it. There’s nothing wrong with a warning. Parents should be sensible enough to monitor what their kids are watching. Everything is out there, but as a parent, it’s your responsibility to supervise what your kids are viewing”, Khan added. 
     
    Reflecting on his own upbringing, Khushal Khan talked about his childhood and the importance of parental guidance in media choices.

    Khushhal Khan said, “My parents did the same with me; I was only allowed to watch certain movies at a certain age, and they monitored everything I watched. So, I would say parents should do the same. If I feel that something shouldn’t be shown to kids, then it shouldn’t be shown. My brother shouldn’t be watching certain things just let him watch Cocomelon.”
     
    Khushal Khan has starred in dramas such as  Qissa Merhabano Ka, Mubhabbat GumShuda, Wehshi and Muskhil.

  • ‘He is a sweet person, very down to earth’: Sohail Sameer praises Fawad Khan

    ‘He is a sweet person, very down to earth’: Sohail Sameer praises Fawad Khan

    Sohail Sameer, a seasoned actor and model, recently appeared as a guest on Gloss Etc by Maliha Rehman and talked about the praise he received from people.

    “Sometimes people say that I could have been in Fawad Khan’s place, but I say I couldn’t. I haven’t put in as much effort as he has. He has done a lot of work, and I am still working.”

    Sohail Sameer is currently working with Khan for an upcoming series.

    “I met Fawad recently after a long time. He is a sweet person, very down-to-earth, and very composed. We are working together on a web series named ‘Shandur’ where we play brothers. It’s been a lot of fun, and I’m impressed by him.”

    Sameer actor expressed his admiration for Fawad Khan’s humility and dedication to his work, saying, “May Allah protect him from the evil eye and grant him more respect. The country is proud of him; he has worked with dignity. He is a normal human being, and despite the fame, he remains grounded. I am grateful to see that I am similar in that respect. It’s surprising how people’s minds can be influenced by fame.”

    Sohail Sameer starred in dramas such as Qaatal, Teri Ik Nazar, Heer Ranjha, Tere Bin, and Inspector Sahiba. Currently, he is starring in Teri Chhaon Mein, written by Radain Shah and directed by Abdullah Badeni.

  • ‘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.

  • ‘We made Udaari and Mayi Ri in this country’: Rubina Ashraf defends Barzakh

    ‘We made Udaari and Mayi Ri in this country’: Rubina Ashraf defends Barzakh

    ‘We made Udaari and Mayi Ri in this country’: Rubina Ashraf defends Barzakh
     
    The latest web series on Zee Zindagi, ‘Barzakh,’ directed and written by Asim Abbasi and starring Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, M Fawad Khan, and Salman Shahid, has generated heated debates on social media.

    A possible queer character and bold storyline have not sat well with some viewers and artists. 
    Veteran actress Rubina Ashraf has defended the show during an appearance on ‘Subh Saveray Samaa Ke Saath’ hosted by Madeha Naqvi.
    “We have made dramas on many topics that are considered taboos. We made Udaari and Mayi Ri in this country,” the A-lister said.

    “We have even created dramas based on complex relationships. Dramas portray society as it is, not the other way around. Barzakh is a drama that also shows reality, with the characters having liberty to protect themselves from what is happening in this world,” Rubina added.

  • ‘Want India and Pakistan on set together,’: Producer of Barzakh Shailja Kejriwal

    ‘Want India and Pakistan on set together,’: Producer of Barzakh Shailja Kejriwal

    Shailja Kejriwal, the chief creative officer at Zee Entertainment’s Zindagi channel, is on a mission to unite Indian and Pakistani artists and writers.
    In a recent interview with Press Trust of India, Kejriwal expressed her desire to see more collaborations between talents from both countries, despite the challenges posed by political tensions.

    Shailja Kejriwal said, “My ultimate desire, I don’t know whether it will happen or not, is that we collaborate… writers and artists from both sides should be on a set together. I am trying to follow that path. Hopefully, we will be able to do something because we flourish more if we are open and inclusive.”

    It has been a journey of one step forward, two steps back for the producer who was instrumental in making Pakistani actors like Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, and Mahira Khan household names in India by showcasing dramas such as Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Humsafar through the Zindagi platform launched in 2014.

    The channel Zindagi, led by Kejriwal, has successfully produced a number of projects with Pakistani actors and directors. Popular series like Qatil Haseenaon Ke Naam, Churails, Mrs. & Mr. Shameem, and the new web series Barzakh starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are among the noteworthy productions. The channel has aired iconic Pakistani dramas like ‘Thakan’, Shukk, Pyarey Afzal, Meri Beti, Mere Harjai, and Main Bushra.

    Kejriwal highlighted her commitment

    “I felt my work would be incomplete if I didn’t play a role in bringing these artists back. My ambition extends beyond just pan India. My dream is to unite South Asians and Asians through collaboration,” Shailja added.

  • 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.

  • Sanam Saeed is a fan of Mahira, Fawad pairing

    Sanam Saeed is a fan of Mahira, Fawad pairing

    Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan, celebrated for their brilliant chemistry in Humsafar, have legions of fans, including Sanam Saeed.
    The talented actress who is reuniting with Fawad Khan after 12 years in the Zee web series Barzakh, told BBC Asian Network, that the Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan jori creates magic on screen.

    “Unlike Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan’s pairing, when I appear on screen with Fawad, people do not feel the same magic, and our pairing does not look as good.”
    While talking about coming together the superstar after more than a decade, she commented, “I myself cannot believe that Fawad Khan and I are working together on screen again after 12 years. But I think fans will be shocked to see us together on screen again after so many years.”

    Talking about different roles, Sanam that as an actor she has to play all kinds of roles. “Viewers should also see me as an actor and understand that I can’t appear in romantic roles every time.”

    The Barzakh actress also said, “Both Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan are beautiful and cute, so their pair looks good. However, Fawad Khan’s interaction with them can be different. It is not necessary that they always appear as a pair.”
    Fawad and Sanam’s last project together was Zindagi Gulzar Hai, which aired on HUMTV in 2012 and was written by Umera Ahmed.

    Bazarkh was released on the ZEE5 YouTube channel. The web series is directed and written by Asim Abbasi.

  • Barzakh: X reactions highlight unique, mixed reviews

    Barzakh: X reactions highlight unique, mixed reviews

    Barzakh, the latest web series on Zee Zindagi, is creating waves among viewers with its unique storyline and great production.

    The web series is not your typical Pakistani family drama, but a thought-provoking and visually stunning series which is generating a range of reactions from the audience on X.Here are some of the reactions: Barzakh is also gaining popularity in India. But not all reactions are positive.

    Barzakh is a breakthrough series that defies convention and features outstanding acting and storyline. It may not be for everyone, but praise is growing for its bold concept and superb aesthetic execution. It is absolutely worth a watch if you haven’t seen it before.