Demons of the Indian Partition

A review of a tragic history lesson by 'Doctor Who'

BBC America/Ben Blackall

It is the same old “Doctor Who,” yet the 13th Doctor brings a few refreshing changes along with her. One of these changes is evident in the most recent episode, and the most interesting one this season, “The Demons of Punjab,” as it reveals companion Yaz’s tragic family history.

“The Demons of Punjab” is not the first episode of “Doctor Who” to explore Indian history, but it feels like it to many who have only seen the new series. But it is more than just another typical adventure into history with aliens thrown in; it’s about the people of history.   

With reviewing the history of the Indian Partition of 1947 between India and Pakistan, the audience witnesses neighbors and family literally torn apart because of hate. It tore apart communities of Hindus and Muslims that once co-existed but soon hated each other because of their differences, something explicitly stated in the episode. The Doctor takes her companions Yaz, Graham, and Ryan back through time and space to witness the partition rip apart Yaz’s family because of newfound hate between Muslims and Hindus.

The episode tugs on heartstrings with its references of death and war and makes both political and social comments to today’s world, where hate truly tears people apart, not just external forces. Just like a normal “Doctor Who” episode, the Doctor faces aliens who are seen as a threat to the people involved. However, as is the new theme of this season, the aliens are not truly “the bad guys.” In fact, these aliens show off the better special effects of the new series.

To those who enjoyed the Rosa Parks episode “Rosa” and the old “Doctor Who” series that focused less on the aliens and more on history and people, “The Demons of Punjab” is another hit that delves into the strength of people in history. This episode combines the strengths of the old series and its attention on characterization with the new special effects and social context, which truly makes this episode great. "The Demons of Punjab" truly holds the best of both worlds.