New research has been published that traces the parallels between the traditional stage comedians, or "Bhands," from the Punjab region across Pakistan and India and the iconic Shakespearean Clowns.
The research paper, titled "Bhands Tradition in Pakistani Punjab Mirrors Shakespearean Comedy", has been authored by Syed Hasnain Ahmad Jilani, an assistant professor of English Literature and Creative Writing at the Government Alamdar Hussain Graduate College in Multan.
"This research challenges conventional boundaries, unveiling a cross-cultural harmony between the traditional Bhands of Pakistani and Indian Punjab and the iconic Shakespearean Clowns. It's a fascinating exploration of theatrical humour," said Professor Jilani.
"The extemporaneous nature of Bhands on the Punjabi stage, juxtaposed with the scripted performances of Shakespearean clowns, adds a unique dimension to our understanding of comedic traditions," he added.
Prof Jilani further explained that Punjabi stage comedians and Shakespearean clowns forge surprising connections with unexpected parallels.
The study, he said, was conducted under the theoretical framework of Subjective Readers Response Theory and focuses on Touchstones and Feste in "As You Like It" and "Twelfth Night," respectively.
The research highlights the shared comedic elements and underscores the prominence of Bhands as spontaneous performers, contrasting with the scripted nature of Shakespearean clowns.
Professor Jilani invited scholars, theatre enthusiasts, and the general public to
delve into this unique intersection of cultural expressions.