KARACHI: YouTuber and influencer Azlan Shah faced widespread criticism on Tuesday after a misleading social media post hinted he was “getting married again,” triggering confusion, anger, and debate across platforms.
Azlan shared the announcement through his Instagram story, suggesting he wanted to reveal something important before “rumours began.” The vague statement immediately fuelled speculation with some followers assuming it was a joke, others believing it to be true, and many reacting with frustration.
Hours later, Azlan released a video alongside his wife, Dr Vareesha Javed Khan, clarifying that the announcement was a prank meant to tease a vow-renewal ceremony for their anniversary. He admitted that people had accused him of lying and even hurled abuses at him after seeing the initial post.
In the video, Vareesha criticised the prank’s framing, calling it a poor choice. Azlan repeatedly apologised, saying he loved her and regretted the misunderstanding. She added that she would never allow him to even think about a real second marriage, prompting further apologies from him.
However, the explanation did little to calm the audience. Social media users called the prank insensitive and unnecessary, arguing that such “second-marriage jokes” reinforce harmful norms. Some viewers questioned whether engagement metrics had become more important to Azlan than responsible content.
Others went further, accusing him of seeking cheap attention and suggesting he disable his comments to avoid escalating backlash.
Azlan and Vareesha, who married in 2022 and share a two year old daughter, are well known for their humorous online presence but this time, many viewers felt the prank crossed a line and failed to land as intended.
