Pakistani actress Ayesha Omar’s new dating reality show Lazawal Ishq has stirred up sharp criticism following the release of its first teaser.

The preview, which quickly spread across social media, triggered boycott calls and demands for the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to step in.

PEMRA, however, issued a statement clarifying that the show does not fall under its jurisdiction as it will stream exclusively on digital platforms rather than licensed television channels.

The teaser reveals the show’s format: eight contestants, four men and four women, sharing a villa in Turkey, with their daily lives recorded for viewers. 

The 43-year-old actor, featured in the teaser wearing bold western dresses, exploring scenic locations, and entering a luxury bungalow, describes the series as a journey to find “eternal love” while navigating emotional challenges.

Inspired by the Turkish hit Aşk Adası and modeled on Western formats such as Love Island and Too Hot to Handle, Lazawal Ishq marks the first attempt to bring the dating-competition genre to Urdu-speaking audiences.

Designed as a long-running series of around 100 episodes, it will feature games, alliances, conflicts, and eliminations, eventually leading to the crowning of a “winning couple.”

But the concept has sharply divided opinion. While some online voices have dismissed the show as “immoral” and launched boycott campaigns, others are intrigued and eager to see how it plays out.