Salman Shahid Opens Up On Barzakh’s Backlash For The First Time

Salman Shahid, one of Pakistan’s legendary actors, recently discussed the backlash fans received on Barzarkh. Barzarkh, last summer’s most anticipated and hated OTT series, captured everyone’s attention with its story.

No one thought that the day Barzarkh was released, it would receive such massive hatred from fans and would be a disaster. The drama was filled with stars such as Salman Shahid, Fawad Khan, and Sanam Saeed.

Everyone was excited to see Fawad and Sanam together on screen after Zindagi Gulzar Hai. Social media campaigns were held to ban the drama series, and at one point, the OTT platform had to remove it.

After that, the director and stars also talked about the show’s removal.

Also read: Barzakh Poster Unveiled At Series Mania Ahead Of World Premiere

Salman Shahid On Barzakh’s Backlash

Veteran actor Salman Shahid recently made his appearance on on Gup Shab with Vasay Chaudhry, where he shared his philosophical views on the Barzakh’s backlash.

“All the artists involved were constantly in touch with each other at the time,” recalled Salman. “We were upset because we didn’t think we’d get such a big reaction – but it happened”, he added.

“Sometimes, things get a big reaction,” observed Salman. “They get a huge response from people, but then everything dies down as well. This is how it is. It’s not a big deal.”

The veteran, however, dismissed those who seek attention by regularly criticizing the content they encounter.

“Some people dislike everything,” remarked Salman. “I, too, don’t like some things – but that doesn’t mean I create an issue over everything. When you are constantly making an issue over everything, all it means is that you want to come into the spotlight. You just want attention.”

Just like Salman, Sanam Saeed also opened up about the show as well.

You Should Accept Criticism, Salman Shahid

However, as a longtime acting professional, Salman added that it was important that artists understood that any creative work in the public eye is open to criticism as well as praise.

“As performers, we should expect that we get both praise and criticism,” illustrated Salman. “Anybody who is in the media at any level should accept it. If they are being praised, they would be deluded if they think that praise is all they are going to get. After all, if you do something wrong, you should accept it.”

Also Read: Barzakh Writer and Director Defends LGBTQ Themes

In the case of Barzakh, however, Salman felt that the tidal wave of criticism was unwarranted. According to him, art depicts life. In Salman’s eyes, if audiences are unable to accept what they see, they should accept that what is being shown on screens is simultaneously taking place in real life as well.

“In your society, there are things [that you may not like],” pointed out Salman. “If you don’t want anyone to shine a light on it, you are just covering up something you don’t want to see.”

After facing strong criticism from local viewers, Barzakh became unavailable to audiences in Pakistan after August 9. Before this decision, the Zindagi team shared a statement on social media, followed by a separate post on X from the director, Asim Abbasi, addressing his followers.

“No story of mine is worth more than the safety of all the beautiful, talented artists who came together to craft it,” wrote the director. “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.”

To Top