shot-button
Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesh Chaturthi
Home > News > India News > Article > Turn into a whirling dervish under the stars

Turn into a whirling dervish under the stars

Updated on: 19 November,2009 07:11 AM IST  | 
Aditi Sharma |

Ruhaniyat, the 3-day Sufi Music Festival, features artists from the deserts of Rajasthan to mystics from Egypt

Turn into a whirling dervish under the stars

Ruhaniyat, the 3-day Sufi Music Festival, features artists from the deserts of Rajasthan to mystics from Egypt

From Arabic Sufiana Mausiqi from Egypt to Kabirpanthi Nirguni songs from Madhya Pradesh, a 3-day concert brings together mystics from remote corners of the world to Mumbai. Ruhaniyat, the Sufi and Mystic Music Festival begins its 9th edition today, with an added venue that's an outcome of popular demand.


Ruhaniyat is a one-of-its-kind festival that provides a serious platform for Sufi music. Since it is held at an open air arena at Horiman Circle garden, there is a certain added charm to the festival. "You have to be connected to the sky and feel the air around you while listening to Sufi music... the experience is something else. People forget the world around them for those four hours.




"When a Sufi sings from his soul, the audience automatically connects with him. In Sufi music, an artist performs for Allah and can convince a man about the existence of God," says Sabri.

Banyan Tree Events started working on the line-up nearly a year in advance. Making sure that Sufi music aficionados get a chance to experience something different with every performance is a very difficult task but they took up the challenge. "Mumbai is our prime focus. Here, we try to bring together the best artists because this is where Ruhaniyat began from nine years ago. The audiences here are curious and keen on listening to something new," says Mahesh Babu.

This year's highlight is an instrumental ensemble featuring Egyptian mystics led by Mohamad Farghaly and Sufi singers from the deserts of Rajasthan led by Kachra Khan. Farghaly is quite excited about his troupe's tour of the country. "Our music is for the soul and the spirit. It speaks about love of the creator, love of human beings and spreads the idea of Sufism. I'm coming to India with a message of peace, love and brotherhood for all," says Farghaly.

On: Today, 7.30 pm at Manik Sabhagriha, opposite Lilavati Hospital, Bandra (W). Daily donor passes for Rs 400 and Rs 300 are available at Manik Sabhagriha box office, Call: 65713771; Rhythm House, Kala Ghoda, Call: 43222727;u00a0 Landmark, Andheri (W), Call: 26396010

On: November 21 and 22, 6.30 pm at Horniman Circle Garden, opposite Asiatic Library, Fort. Daily donor
passes for Rs 500 are available only at Rhythm House.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK