Sufi music is the latest trend in the music scenario today. However, its roots go back many centuries. What then is Sufi music? Kavita Seth informs, "Sufismin originated with the spiritual poets and singers like Kabir and Meera Bai. Sufism is beyond religion. It is the core of beliefs. For example, the main fruit is like Sufism and religion is the peel."

According to Sonali Rathod Sufism came to India through Amir Khushroo who was a saint, a poet and a musician. Later Sufism became popular through the Quwals.

However, Sonu Nigam thinks differently. He emphasizes, "There is nothing like Sufi music. Sufism is a state of mind. The poets wrote poetry about their love for and relationship with the Almighty. Sufi poetry or the Sufi kalam, was later set to music by the Quwals. However, today we call this Sufi poetry set to music, Sufi music. But there is no music specific to Sufi. There is Sufi poetry but no Sufi music."

How is it different from Bhajans? Sonu explains “Sufi poetry is different from Bhajans. Bhajans generally specifically address Hindu Gods that have names, forms and mythology. Sufi poetry is about God in general."

It is a gross misconception that Sufism is a Muslim form of poetry or song. Sonu emphasizes,"Sufism is not a Muslim specific trait. Music is considered taboo by muslims and so there is no way Sufi music has Islamic strains. Sufi poetry talks about the person's relationship or affinity to the Almighty."

Today there is a great demand for what is called Sufi music. The well known late Pakistani singer Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was and still is the most celebrated Sufi singer in the modern times. Today his nephew, Rahat Fateh Ali is a well known Sufi singer too. Some other famous Sufi singers today are A. R. Rahman, Abida Parveen, Kailash Kher, Kavita Seth, Rabbi Shergill, Sonali and Roop Kumar Rathod and Sonu Nigam.

What factors have catapulted Sufi songs to the fore? Sonali likens Sufism to Transendential Meditation. According to Kavita, today people experience a lot of frustration and tension in life and they are seeking freedom from them through Sufi music.

Yes indeed, today, people are full of stress and tension. People are disappointed and disturbed.There is so much of violence. There are so many wars and brawls due to religious intolerance and infighting among various sects. The work place too is very competitive and extremely stressful. Relationships too are facing a lot of strain. People are searching for an inner peace, happiness, and Sufism is their answer as it helps them in their quest. It gives them inner peace and strength.

According to Sufi philosophy one can get close to God through music. In today's fast paced age they seek solace in Sufi music. It helps people connect with God and feel His presence.

What is the future of Sufism? How long will it be on top of the charts? Sonali says, "All forms of music go through a cycle. Few years ago ghazals were a trend. So now it is the turn of Sufi music."  

Music has always been evolving and it will continue to do so. Depending on the needs of the audience and the latest developments in technology a new phase will take center stage; till then Sufi songs will reign. So tune in Allah ke Bandhe.

By Monarose Sheila Pereira

Monarose Sheila Pereira is a Mumbai based author, journalist and lecturer. She has published 12 books and has written for many newspapers and magazines. Some of her works have been translated into foreign languages. She also conducts self - improvement workshops.

Photo of Rabbi Shergill: Verus Ferreira