Backlash prompts TV channel to remove controversial scene from 'Ishq Di Chashni'
Entertainment
Drama 'Ishq Di Chashni's episode riles fans for 'mocking' dwarfism
(Web Desk) – A TV channel removed scenes from an episode of a drama after backlash from drama enthusiasts that the in question scenes featured a character making fun of another character having short height due to dwarfism.
The episode of drama ‘Ishq Di Chashni’ does not sit well with the drama enthusiasts because it features a character whose height is short and treated as a child and mocked by the lead character.
The Ramazan special drama has come under fire for its controversial portrayal of dwarfism, particularly in how it handles the character Rasgulla.
Played by an actor with dwarfism, Rasgulla's portrayal has become the subject of criticism, with viewers calling out the show's treatment of the character as offensive.
The drama, starring Sehar Khan and Khushhal Khan, and directed by Shahid Shafaat, initially gained praise for its progressive storyline, which revolves around the love story of two passionate chefs and follows the classic enemies-to-lovers trope.
However, it wasn’t long before audiences began to express discomfort. Specifically, the treatment of Rasgulla, a little person, became a central point of contention.
Rather than being treated as a fully developed character, Rasgulla is often depicted in a way that many viewers felt was degrading, appearing more like a prop or child in certain comedic scenes.
This portrayal raised questions about how differently-abled individuals are represented in media, with some scenes being seen as offensive rather than humorous.
One of the most criticized moments occurred when Khushhal Khan’s character, Sherry, was shown twirling Rasgulla around in his arms, seating him in his lap, and using his arms in exaggerated, comedic gestures.
This act, intended to be funny, left many viewers uncomfortable, and it wasn’t long before social media erupted with calls for the creators to rethink how they were depicting the character.
In response to the backlash, the channel acted swiftly, removing the controversial scene of Khan swinging Rasgulla from the first episode of the drama.
The decision to edit out the offending scenes was met with praise from netizens, who appreciated the channel’s prompt response.
