Bhaijaan
Synopsis:
As fifteen year-olds, best friends Khafi and Zain strive to live their professional wrestling dreams and escape the conservative norms of Ilford, but their hopes of freedom come to a halt as the consequences of patriarchy, abuse and toxic masculinity within their culture reach a boiling point. While Zain is happy to make a joke in any situation, Khafi leans more towards sensitivity and understanding, regardless both boys know they can lean on each other - until they can’t.
‘Bhaijaan’ explores the impact of toxic masculinity on young South Asian boys clouded by violence, religion and the need to be a man.
Number of Characters: 2
Minimum Number of Actors Required: 2
Length (in Pages): 67
Location: Ilford, East London
Key Words: Masculinity, Brotherhood, Islam, Religion, Friendship, Assault
Has the Play Been Produced? Yes
Are the Rights Available? Yes
Has the Play Been Published? No
Award nominations/wins: Shortlisted for Soho Theatre's Tony Craze Award 2024 Sold out both nights of The Hope Theatre's 'Write Club' festival
Reviews:
“A gritty and compelling story that shines a light on the myriad challenges faced by working-class teenage boys today.” - Chris Omaweng (LondonTheatre1)
“A celebration of what is possible when masculinity escapes the toxicity that all too often comes with it.” - Scott Matthewman (The Reviews Hub)
“Watching their stories unfold is both deeply heartbreaking and essential. It’s a painful, yet vital, narrative to witness.” - Nishat Ahmed (Letters to July)
“A rollercoaster of emotions that soared in moments of love and tenderness whilst also exploring the lows and effects of toxic masculinity in young brown boys.” - Kaya Uppal (Writer and Producer of ‘Brown Girl Noise!’)
Production Photos/Posters/Playtext Cover:
