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It was supposed to be a ground-breaking new BBC comedy which finally placed a modern Asian family centre-stage. But 'Citizen Khan' has proved no laughing matter after the sitcom prompted painful comparisons to "racist" 1970s' series 'Mind Your Language'.
Viewers complained that the comedy stereotyped Muslims and insulted Islam. More than 200 complaints have been made since it aired on Monday night.
Some claimed that the series, about a self-appointed community leader in Birmingham, was a "tasteless depiction of Islam".
British Muslim Adil Ray wrote the series and also stars as the pompous Khan. He contends with Mrs Khan, who dreams of a spotlessly clean house, a daughter who wants the wedding of the century and the youngest, Alia, who is caked in cosmetics but fools her dad into believing she is religious.
Dr Leon Moosavi, a sociologist of race and religion, said: "The constructs are in line with the way racists represent Muslims."
The comedy prompted criticism on Twitter. One viewer asked: "Was 'Citizen Khan' written in 1972? The Pakistani stereotypes are just painful."
Yousuf Bhailok, former secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, said: "It is good to change the stereotyped image of Muslims always being serious and shouting." (© The Independent, London)
Irish Independent
