Sufi brotherhood brings musical mysticism

Nizami Brothers have travelled far and beyond, but the journey they’ve taken within their souls, seemed the longest, yet most extraordinary.
Nizami Brothers
Nizami Brothers

Nizami Brothers have travelled far and beyond, but the journey they’ve taken within their souls, seemed the longest, yet most extraordinary. At the crux of their being, lies the foundation of their music—Qawwali—rooted in the mystical tradition of the Sufis, where the spirit becomes profound. Sharing this musical essence with you are Ghulam Sabir Nizami and Ghulam Waris Nizami,  as part of Jashn-e-Qawwali Sufi festival.

This is a presentation of The Films and Theatre Society as part of Rang, their annual arts festival.

The Nizam Brothers have taken their music to the Gulf, Africa, England, Sri Lanka and Europe but nothing matches the zeal they showcase at humble dargahs. “It’s there that we feel most connected to God. We sing our heart out,” says Sabir.

Despite the peace their gargah offers, the Nizami Brothers cannot ignore the outreach of the big stage, Jashn-e-Qawwali being one of the.

Nizami Bandhu
Nizami Bandhu

“Afterall, if audiences don’t get to hear us, our music will just remain within the four walls of our dargahs. The only platforms we avoid are the ones that distort shayaris by Amir Khusro, Bulleh Shah and others,” says Waris.

Their desires are grounded in reality but their dreams are driven by ambition. They want the Government of India to acknowledge Qawwali as an art form. They would also like their work in the field to be recognized and appreciated more.

“We have dedicated our entire lifetime, in fact, multiple generations to make this such a culturally and musically rich tradition,” says Sabir.

Sufi Hayat Brothers
Sufi Hayat Brothers

Having said that, they know they’re guided by destiny. But fate favours only those who help themselves. Taking that into cognizance, the brothers say they strive for excellence. The rest lays resting in the hands of the almighty, they say, looking upwards in reverence.

Jashn-e-Qawwali: Till December 10. Schedule can be viewed on the festival’s Facebook page.

Quickly then...
What makes you angry: When Qawwali is distorted or ill-treated
Food you cannot live without: Vegetarian food
A fond memory: When former President Pratibha Patil called us for dinner at her house
Besides music, you enjoy: Food
The last time you came across hard times: Never

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