"Barzakh's critics promoted the story of Qaum-e-Lut more than the drama itself," says Zhalay Sarhadi

Renowned actor Zhalay Sarhadi recently remarked that critics of the popular fantasy drama Barzakh have inadvertently drawn more attention to the story of Qaum-e-Lut than the drama itself.

Taking to Instagram, Zhalay said, "The critics of Barzakh have promoted the story of Qaum-e-Lut more than the airtime of a single scene could have."

Previously, she had criticised the frequent boycott campaigns against artists and their work, asserting that actors are unfairly blamed by the audience for the content of dramas. 

The actor also clarified her stance, stating, "I don’t support homosexuality," but reiterated that she does not agree with the culture of boycotting.

The story of Qaum-e-Lut is often cited in Islamic teachings as a condemnation of homosexuality, which is considered a sin in Islam. The Holy Quran also details the story of the people of Prophet Lut (as), who lived during the time of Prophet Ibrahim (as). 

According to the Quran, a deadly catastrophe struck the city of Sodom when its inhabitants rejected Prophet Lut and continued their immoral lifestyle, including sexual relations between men.

Barzakh, starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, was highly anticipated before its release due to the reunion of the on-screen couple and its unconventional fantasy storyline.

However, the third episode of Barzakh featured romantic scenes between two male characters.

The portrayal of two male characters with unconventional sexual orientations prompted fans to accuse the series director of promoting a "Western agenda".

Netizens called for a boycott of the series, with many stating that it indoctrinates people to accept same-sex relationships, which goes against their religious and cultural values.