A soulful sojourn

Keeping traditions alive in a world which is changing every second is what Nizami Bandhu, a sufi Qawwali group residing in Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi, do every day. They are currently preparing to mesmerise Bengalureans with their soulful music on November 23 at Jyoti Nivas College.

The group consists of Ustad Chand Nizami, Shadab and Shorabh Faridi Nizami. “We have performed around Bengaluru but never within the city . This time we are hoping to reach out to more people through this concert. After all, sur is not limited to any religion," says Ustad Chand Nizami.

The qawwali, that they are known for, dates back to over 700 years. Generation after generation they have been taking this legacy to newer heights. They belong to the Sikandra Gharana, which has also given them the privilege to be the court singers at Hazrat Nizamiuddin Auliya where they perform qawwalis written by Amir Khusro. “My grandfather taught my father who in turn taught me the music. It is a part of our traditions. It is everything to us. Meanwhile, Amir Khusro's words have brought us closer to God and helped us discover ourselves. Now we have 50 qawwals singing with us," says the Ustad after reflecting about the long and inspiring journey.

Kun Faya Kun (Be! And it is), the song which gave the entire nation a glimpse of the life at the dargah, marked the collaboration of Ustab Chand Nizami with AR Rahman. “The song itself depicts the celebration of life and everything that the Lord has given to us. Working with Rahman Sahab was a wonderful experience. He used to come to the dargah every time he visited Delhi. That is how we got to know each other. Singing with him was an experience. It is amazing how he pays attention to detail," he concludes.