The Readings Room Festival at the historical Khaliqdina Hall culminated with Qawwali on Sunday night after multiple programmes, including a theatre play and a Dastangoi performance.
The Qawwali was presented by the Ghayoor Moiz troupe belonging to Qawwal Bachon Ka Gharana, which claims to be the descendants of Amir Khusrau, the inventor of Qawwali. Introducing the troupe, the host said Ghayoor and Moiz are the sons of Fareed Ayaz Qawwal, a notable Qawwal of the country.
Before beginning the Qawwali, the lead vocalists of the troupe explained that Zikr, Samaa and Qawwali are distinct forms of spirituality, of which Qawwali has the least restrictions and it can be performed publicly. They said Zikr is done only in a limited gathering, while Samaa also has several restrictions.
The Qawwali ‘Allah Hoo Allah Hoo’ began with the acknowledgement of the infinite mercy of God with the line “Ya Raab Tere Karam Ka Dar-e-Faiz Baaz Hai”. The festival began on Sunday afternoon with a production by the Grips Theatre titled ‘Unfit Ball Hai Dunya Mere Aage.’ It also offered Dastangoi, featuring prominent graduates of the National Academy of Performing Arts who have developed a unique craft of oral storytelling that enthrals the audience. The lawn of the Khaliqdina Hall offered various food stalls. The entire festival was free and provided recreation to many arts and literary enthusiasts of the city.
