The TV drama Parvarish has recently sparked a heated debate in Pakistan due to a scene in its 31st episode. The show, known for its progressive narrative, has received both praise and criticism for addressing generational conflicts within joint families.
However, a particular moment in the episode has raised eyebrows, with some viewers accusing the creators of promoting LGBTQ+ themes.
Parvarish, written by Kiran Siddiqui and directed by Meesam Naqvi, has been lauded for breaking stereotypes and shedding light on the challenges faced by Gen Z within traditional family structures. Yet, a fleeting moment in episode 31, where a character named Wali sings at a café, triggered a backlash.
During this scene, the camera briefly focuses on a poster displaying a rainbow-colored Pride heart flag, a symbol widely associated with the LGBTQ+ community.
This short but impactful shot quickly went viral, causing a stir among social media users who voiced their displeasure. Many criticized the inclusion of such imagery in a family-oriented drama, accusing the creators of subtly promoting LGBTQ+ content.
Some viewers took to social media, with one commenting, “I loved this drama, but after seeing that pride heart, I’m done watching it.” Others expressed concern that the show was attempting to normalize themes they found incompatible with traditional values.
The controversy has amplified the divide between those advocating for more progressive storytelling in Pakistani media and those who hold more conservative views.
Although the creators have not yet responded publicly to the criticism, the incident underscores the challenges faced by local productions that introduce modern or unconventional themes in a society that is often resistant to change.
Parvarish is not the first local drama to face backlash over perceived social messaging, and it likely won’t be the last. As the debate around the show continues, it reflects the broader struggle over the direction of media and its role in shaping societal norms.
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