Amidst the socio-economic challenges of late seventies South London—high unemployment, inflation, food shortages, and strikes, 17-year-old Karim stands on the cusp of a transformative journey.
Royal Shakespeare Company’s Emma Rice, in collaboration with Hanif Kureishi, breathes life into the plot of the celebrated 1990 novel, "The Buddha of Suburbia," in a dynamic stage adaptation. Against a backdrop of societal flux, the play delves into themes of family, friendship, identity, and belonging with captivating allure and emotional resonance.
Dee Ahluwalia, renowned for his performances in "Our Generation" at the National Theatre and "Sex Education," embodies the protagonist, Karim, while Ankur Bahl, acclaimed for roles in "The Father and The Assassin" at the National Theatre and "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at Shakespeare's Globe, assumes the role of Karim's father, Haroon. Additionally, Raj Bajaj, known for his work in "The Merchant of Venice" and "The Djinns of Eidgah," takes on the character of Changez.
The production, which debuted on April 18, will run at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon until June 11.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Raj Bajaj discusses his character and it’s complexities.
Can you share some insights into your character, Changez, and his role in the play? What excites you the most about bringing his story to life on stage?
Changez is Jamila's husband. He's thirty years old and though he came highly recommended by one of Anwar's cousins in Bombay, Changez defies all expectations. While Anwar wants a strapping young man capable of working in his grocery store and providing him with grandchildren, Changez doesn't care to work, and Jamila refuses to have sex with him. Despite all of this, Changez is generally cheerful. He spends his days reading and walking around London with Karim. He and Karim soon become good friends. One of his many roles in the play is to bring joy, naivety love.
In the original novel, Changez's character undergoes one of the most complex arcs and relationships. Which elements of his journey resonate with you, and how do you form an emotional connection with the character?
He's loyal, open-hearted and has a curious nature. I'm very excited to have the opportunity to stage this.
I think love as an emotion is extremely universal and something that resonates with me deeply. Life's experiences have taught me that I'm not always able to get what I want despite how desperate I am. These all help me in finding a true emotional connection with the Changez.
I think audiences will enjoy Changez. He's warm, lovable and determined. Love is a powerful thing!
What do you think makes Changez’s story relevant to contemporary audiences?
His story is relevant because it's an immigration story. Lots of Indians came to the UK in the 70s and went through many of the difficulties he faced. Trying to fit in, survive and find your place in society, that's still prevalent today.
