Pakistani actress and model Ayesha Omar has firmly denied reports that her upcoming Urdu-language reality programme Lazawal Ishq is a dating show. 

 

In an exclusive conversation with The Current, Omar addressed the growing controversy and backlash surrounding the show’s concept, particularly on social media, and clarified that the show’s intention had been misrepresented by several media outlets.

 

“Some news outlets are claiming that I said it is a Pakistani dating show but that’s not true. Not once did I say it is a dating show,” Ayesha said, emphasising that the show was not inspired by Western dating formats such as Love Island.

 

She clarified that it was centered on meaningful communication and long-term relationship building aimed at marriage. “Yes, the promo has been getting all kinds of feedback and speculation. [But] it is not a dating show at all. It is not about dating… it is about finding a life partner for marriage.”

 

Omar elaborated that while the format involved participants living in a villa, the setup respected cultural values with gender-segregated floors and separate dorms.

 

“It is a Turkish show, but as it is in Urdu language and for our audiences, it is in accordance with our norms, values and culture. These young adults are living in a villa but they will be having their own living spaces… they have their own dorms. A floor for girls is separate while a separate floor is assigned to the boys. They also have their own dressing spaces. Only the lounge, kitchen and the poolside are shared and that is where they will interact with each other.”

 

Omar also pointed out that similar formats have aired on Pakistani television before where young adults live in the same premises but maintain separate sleeping arrangements, and described Lazawal Ishq as an insightful social experiment focused on communication.

 

She said the show would revolve around interaction and verbal communication just like people get into at colleges, universities, parks or theaters. “Only this kind of interaction is being shown and actually, this is a very good experiment. This is an overview of how young people communicate, what mistakes they make or how they rectify them.”

 

On the format, she further said that no pre-decided couples were involved and relationships would form naturally as participants get to know each other with the ultimate goal being marriage.

 

“Couples are not already made by us. Those who are participating, after knowing each other through communication, will get into dedicated relationships for marriage and that is the premise of the show. The games they will be playing will be based on communication,” she said, adding that the show could serve as a valuable learning experience for young people in Pakistan.

 

Omar’s clarification comes after the show’s teaser revealed that Lazawal Ishq will feature four men and four women living together in a luxurious villa in Turkey, with their interactions, conflicts and emotional growth being recorded. She was seen in the teaser enjoying the scenic views and entering a lavish bungalow, describing the show as a search for eternal love and a reflection of emotional trials.

 

Lazawal Ishq will stream exclusively on YouTube and not be broadcast on traditional television. It is expected to run for approximately 100 episodes, featuring challenges, games, alliances and conflicts, ultimately leading to the selection of a “winning couple”.

 

The airing date is yet to be announced.