Soothing Sufiana

 Sufism is a mystical dimension of Islam, transcending all religions. It is a way of experiencing truth and Self-realisation and, in the process, takes the seeker on a path of serenity, piety and divinity by means of love and devotion to God. Truth is the substance. Truth is the courage, it is the power of flight; some fly and some remain in the garden, some go beyond the stars. Sufi music is evolved and illuminated. It is the enchanting outcome of the interface between Hinduism and Islam. The word ‘sufi’ comes from the Arabic word ‘suf ’ that means pure. Sufi music is all about the relationship between the moods of the lover-poet-saint and the beloved. Sufism originated with the foundation of the Chishti order in Khorasam, Persia. Sufi compositions contain effusive verses with an esoteric dimension written in an ornate language. Dargah Sharif at Ajmer — resting place of Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti — is renowned for its qawwals and is a popular pilgrimage destination. It is where one can intensely feel the Sufi experience. Particularly on Thursdays, the entire area of the Dargah Sharif is suffused with spirituality. Qawwalis, raga-based compositions, are sung in tandem with the combination of harmonium and tabla. Sufism transcends all boundaries of language and religion. Sufi music has the power to heal and its philosophy has a soothing effect. Qawwali is an expression of love between the lover and the beloved that elevates the spirit, bringing God and performer together. In such exaltations, the listener could slip into a mystical trance.

Source: Economic Times, 7/02/2019