"Qawwali" Pronounce,Meaning And Examples

"Qawwali" Meaning

Qawwali is a form of Sufi devotional music and poetry that originated in the Indian subcontinent, primarily in the Sindh region of present-day Pakistan. It is a highly emotional and spiritual genre of music that expresses love and passion for the divine, often with lyrics that focus on spiritual themes, love, and the longing for the divine.

The word "qawwali" is derived from the Arabic word "qawwal," meaning "one who recites the qawwal" or "a mystic singer." Qawwali music and poetry have a rich history and have been an integral part of South Asian culture for centuries.

Qawwali music is characterized by the use of pentatonic melodies, traditional instruments such as the tabla, harmonium, and tabla, and powerful vocal performances that often involve vocal improvisation and repetition of lyrical phrases. The genre has been popularized by legendary qawwals such as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Sabri Brothers, and Ghulam Farid Sabri, who have helped to spread the genre globally.

Qawwali is not just a form of music, but a spiritual practice that brings people together in a shared experience of devotion, love, and spirituality. Its emotional and spiritual expression continues to captivate listeners around the world, making it a beloved and enduring part of South Asian cultural heritage.

"Qawwali" Examples

Qawwali

1. The mystic poet, Amir Khusrau, is credited with popularizing qawwali music in the Indian subcontinent during the 13th century.

2. The qawwali performance was praised by critics for its emotive delivery and heartfelt lyrics, which explored themes of love, spirituality, and devotion.

3. At the qawwali saint's shrine, pilgrims would gather to listen to the evening devotional music, which was said to have the power to heal spiritual wounds.

4. The Pakistani qawwali singer, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, collaborated with Hollywood composer, A.R. Rahman, on a song for a major motion picture.

5. Qawwali music has been a significant influence on Western artists, with many musicians incorporating elements of the genre into their own work, such as Dave Stewart's song, "Lilibon".