Omer Shahzad claps back at critics, over ‘Umrah’ controversy
Actor and model Omer Shahzad has responded to the online criticism surrounding his Umrah video, firmly addressing the backlash while standing in support of his wife Shanzay Lodhi.
The couple’s clarification comes after their shared moments from the sacred journey sparked debate across social media.
Taking to Instagram, Omer posted a statement later reshared by Shanzay explaining the intent behind the video.
He emphasized that the footage was a personal collection of memories from their time in Makkah, not limited to the Umrah ritual itself.
The actor clarified that as a married couple, there was nothing inappropriate in their interaction, urging critics to reconsider the assumptions being made.
“We’ve seen some of the comments. this was simply a collection of our memories,” the statement read, adding that the narrative being shaped online, including by certain digital publications, was both unfair and unnecessary.
He further called for empathy, suggesting that people focus on their own lives rather than engaging in harsh judgment. “If you don’t understand our intention, don’t question our character,” he concluded.
The controversy began earlier this month when the couple shared a video from Masjid al-Haram, capturing moments during Tawaf.
In the clip, Omer is seen holding Shanzay’s hand while she leaned on his shoulder an interaction that some social media users and online pages deemed inappropriate for a sacred setting.
Critics labeled the video as attention-seeking, while others defended it as a harmless expression of affection between husband and wife.
Omer Shahzad and Shanzay Lodhi tied the knot in April 2025 in a spiritually significant ceremony held in Madinah. Their wedding journey began with an intimate nikkah in the holy city, followed by traditional celebrations in Karachi attended by close friends and family.
The couple was widely appreciated for keeping their events elegant and meaningful rather than extravagant.