Barzakh, a critically acclaimed six-part supernatural drama, has announced the removal of all episodes from YouTube Pakistan after intense online backlash in the region. The controversy: a near kiss between two male leads.

Barzakh comes from Pakistani-British director Asim Abbasi, whose 2018 feature Cake was selected as Pakistan’s entry to the Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film. The series has had a strong following since it began, with the first episode garnering over 4 million views.

The title Barzakh refers to the Arabic word roughly translated as “border,” usually denoting a place between the living and the dead. Along these lines, the series follows a 76-year-old man who invites his family back to his resort in a place called the Land of Nowhere to attend his “Third and Final Marriage.” It just so happens his bride is the ghost of his first love.

While attending this weird wedding, the long-estranged family must grapple with old grudges and conflicts. Through this, the series delves into topics like mental health, patriarchy, folklore, the afterlife, and the inherent mystery in the world. A recent episode explored queer identity as two male characters almost kissed in one scene.

Following the controversy that erupted from this episode, Indian entertainment channel Zindagi announced on social media that they would be pulling the series from YouTube Pakistan.

“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,” Zindagi wrote.

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

Director Abbasi reaffirmed his commitment to telling diverse stories in spite of controversy. “With all due respect, if you find queer/non-heteronormative storylines ‘distasteful,’ please do not watch my content,” he wrote. “I will always champion the rights of all and tell stories that we believe in.”

Following Zidagi’s announcement, Abbasi clarified that removing the series from YouTube Pakistan was the right move. “No story of mine is worth more than the safety of all the beautiful, talented artists who came together to craft it,” he wrote. “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.”

Pakistani viewers have until August 9 to watch the series. The full series is still available to watch on YouTube in regions outside Pakistan.

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