In recent years, Qawwali nights have become a cherished part of Pakistani wedding celebrations, gaining immense popularity, particularly among the younger generation eager to revive traditional Sufi music and poetry. A report by a private news channel highlighted that Qawwali nights, once confined to shrines and Urs gatherings, are now a staple in wedding events, with many couples opting for live Qawwali performances over traditional wedding bands.
The trend has not only revitalized traditional Qawwali music but also provided a platform for emerging Qawwals to showcase their talent. Renowned Qawwal Abu Muhammad expressed his joy at the growing interest among the youth. “It’s heartening to see the younger generation embracing traditional Qawwali music. It connects us with our cultural heritage and spreads messages of love and spirituality,” he said. Abu Muhammad takes pride in his family’s longstanding association with Qawwali, a tradition spanning generations.
However, he also voiced concern over the lack of proper training among some modern Qawwals. “Many today lack the rigorous training and mentorship necessary to truly master this art. Preserving the authenticity and integrity of Qawwali is crucial,” he emphasized, underscoring the importance of traditional training in conveying the spiritual depth of the lyrics.
Another Qawwal, Muhammad Ali, praised the rise of Qawwali nights at weddings for providing a new platform to reach broader audiences. “We are grateful for this opportunity to share our art and inspire others,” he said.
The trend of Qawwali nights is not confined to one city but has spread across Pakistan, including Karachi, Islamabad, and Faisalabad. Many citizens have expressed their appreciation for this cultural revival. Ali Hassan, a musician, noted, “Qawwali music is a wonderful way to connect with our heritage, and it’s great to see the younger generation taking an interest.”
Fatima Ahmed, a young fan, shared her excitement, saying, “I’m a huge fan of Qawwali music. It’s amazing to see it featured at weddings. Abu Muhammad Qawwal is one of my favorites.” With its growing popularity, Qawwali music is set to remain an integral part of Pakistani wedding celebrations, resonating with both tradition and modernity.
