#live music performances in Delhi

[livewiresdelhi]

DJ courses in Delhi

DJ courses in Delhi https://www.livewiresdelhi.com/dj-courses/ Contact us +91-9999 711 179

Learn amazing techniques of mixing remixing & making mashups at Livewires Does music turn your mood? Are you passionate about mixing music to make people hit the dance floor? Want to become a professional DJ? How about learning a professional DJ course in Delhi? If yes, then welcome to Livewires. Learn DJ techniques in Livewires

Record Audio

Edit Audio

Audio Sampling

Handle Audio Equipment

Cue Tracks

Beat Matching

Mix Different Styles Of Music

Perform Live On-stage The Dj classes the livewires will make you familiar with different types of technology, the latest music of devices, and mixing software to produce enthralling music.

[thekabircompany]

[dschostel]

Delhi City School: The Top CBSE Boarding School in Delhi NCR

When it comes to choosing the right school for your child, Delhi City School stands out as The Top CBSE Boarding School in Delhi NCR. With a rich history of academic excellence and a commitment to holistic development, the school is an ideal choice for parents looking to provide their children with quality education combined with a nurturing environment.

Why Choose Delhi City School?

Academic Excellence As a top-tier CBSE-affiliated institution, Delhi City School prides itself on its consistent academic performance. The school follows a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge students intellectually while ensuring they grasp core concepts in subjects like science, mathematics, and humanities. With highly qualified teachers and state-of-the-art facilities, students are well-prepared for both board examinations and competitive entrance exams.

Modern Hostel Facilities The boarding facilities at Delhi City School are designed to provide a home away from home. The hostels are equipped with modern amenities, ensuring students have a comfortable stay and focus on their studies. With 24/7 security, a nutritious meal plan, and a caring staff, parents can rest assured their children are in safe hands.

Holistic Development Beyond academics, Delhi City School focuses on the overall development of students. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, music, and debate, encouraging students to explore their talents and interests. The balanced approach to education helps students build leadership skills, confidence, and teamwork.

Expert Faculty and Mentorship At Delhi City School, students are guided by experienced faculty who are passionate about teaching and mentoring young minds. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, helping each student reach their full potential. The school also has a strong emphasis on values and discipline, helping students develop into responsible and ethical individuals.

Convenient Location Located in the heart of Delhi NCR, the school offers easy accessibility from major parts of the region. The location, coupled with the peaceful and secure campus, provides an ideal learning environment for students.

Conclusion For parents seeking a balance of academic rigor, character development, and a supportive boarding environment, Delhi City School emerges as The Top Boarding School in Delhi NCR. With its proven track record, it continues to shape the future of students, preparing them for success in their academic and personal lives.

[top-leaders-in-india]

Celebrating Independence Day: Heartfelt Greetings from Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore

The Significance of Independence Day

Independence Day, observed on the 15th of August annually, holds profound significance in the hearts of millions of Indians worldwide. It commemorates the day in 1947 when India attained freedom from British rule after years of relentless struggle led by our visionary leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This day symbolizes not just political emancipation but also embodies the values of unity, diversity, and resilience that define our multicultural society.

Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore’s Message

Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore, a decorated officer and a prominent public figure, extends his warmest greetings to all fellow Indians on this auspicious day. His dedication to the nation, both in military service and public life, exemplifies the courage and commitment that continue to inspire generations.

A Tribute to Patriotism and Sacrifice

Independence Day is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters who laid down their lives to secure the future of generations to come. It is a tribute to their unwavering courage and determination in the face of adversity, which paved the way for an independent India.

Celebrations Across the Nation

Across India, Independence Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor. From the grand ceremony at the Red Fort in Delhi, where the Prime Minister unfurls the national flag and addresses the nation, to local events in towns and villages, every corner of the country resonates with the joy of freedom.

Cultural Diversity on Display

One of the most captivating aspects of Independence Day celebrations is the showcasing of India’s rich cultural diversity. Traditional dances, music performances, and vibrant parades featuring the country’s diverse heritage are integral parts of the festivities. It is a time when Indians from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared identity and unity in diversity.

Looking Towards a Bright Future

As we celebrate another year of independence, it is also a time to reflect on the progress made by our nation across various fields. From advancements in technology to economic growth and social development, India continues to march forward with resilience and determination.

Colonel Rathore’s Vision for India

Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore envisions a future where every Indian can thrive in a society that upholds justice, equality, and opportunity for all. His unwavering belief in the youth of India as catalysts for change underscores his commitment to shaping a prosperous and inclusive nation.

[shinykittenland]

Places to Visit in Delhi at Night

Delhi, the capital city of India, transforms into a vibrant and lively hub at night. Here are some of the top places to visit in Delhi after sunset:

India Gate: This iconic war memorial is a sight to behold when illuminated. The surrounding lawns offer a perfect setting for evening strolls or late-night picnics.

Connaught Place: It is known as Delhi's bustling heart, CP buzzes with activity well into the night. Explore its array of cafes, restaurants, and shops for a true taste of Delhi's nightlife.

Hauz Khas Village: A hotspot for night owls, this trendy locale boasts an eclectic mix of pubs, bars, and eateries. It is the place to be for those seeking a vibrant nocturnal scene.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: It is open round the clock, this serene Sikh temple offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. The illuminated structure reflecting in the holy pond creates a mesmerizing spectacle.

Kingdom of Dreams: A short drive from Delhi in Gurgaon, this entertainment complex dazzles visitors with its musicals, theatrical performances, and cultural shows.

When planning your night out in Delhi, always prioritize safety and adhere to local guidelines. To make the most of your nocturnal adventures, consider a Car Rental Delhi service for a convenient and comfortable experience exploring the city after dark.

[weddingbanquets0123]

Perfect Wedding Venues for Your Dream Celebration

West Delhi, a vibrant tapestry of bustling markets and residential havens, offers a treasure trove of stunning wedding venues. From luxurious banquet halls to picturesque lawns, the area caters to diverse needs and budgets, making it a popular choice for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience. Let's embark on a journey through some of the most sought-after wedding venues in key West Delhi locations:

Kirti Nagar:

Grand Imperial: Experience grandeur fit for royalty at Grand Imperial. This opulent venue boasts expansive Wedding Venues in Kirti Nagar adorned with intricate chandeliers and crystal accents. Lush gardens and a dedicated bridal room elevate the experience.

The Millennium Banquet: With modern interiors and ample space, The Millennium Banquet caters to both intimate and grand weddings. They offer customizable wedding packages with exquisite catering and impeccable service.

Naraina:

The Ritz: This iconic Wedding Venues in Naraina features contemporary banquet halls bathed in natural light. They offer themed decorations and personalized menus, ensuring a unique and memorable celebration.

Golden Leaf: A haven for budget-conscious couples, Golden Leaf offers value-driven packages with spacious halls and delicious catering. Their dedicated team assists with all aspects of your wedding planning.

Wedding Venues in Rohini:

Grand Venice: Transport your guests to the charm of Venice at Grand Venice. This unique venue features picturesque canals, gondolas, and stunning Italian-inspired architecture, creating a magical backdrop for your vows.

Country Inn & Suites: This resort-style venue offers outdoor lawns, banquet halls, and a rooftop terrace, ideal for intimate or expansive weddings. Their on-site catering and event planning services ensure a seamless experience.

Moti Nagar:

The Grand Ashok: Indulge in unparalleled luxury at The Grand Ashok. This five-star hotel boasts opulent banquet halls, manicured lawns, and impeccable service. Their culinary expertise and personalized attention to detail set the stage for a truly grand celebration.

R K Banquet: This traditional Wedding venues in Moti Nagar offers a spacious banquet hall ideal for large gatherings. Their focus on delicious vegetarian cuisine and warm hospitality makes it a popular choice for families.

Mayapuri:

Hotel Mayapuri: This budget-friendly venue features well-maintained banquet halls and efficient service. They offer customizable packages and cater to a variety of wedding styles.

Park View Banquet: With a spacious Wedding venues in Mayapuri and a dedicated team, Park View Banquet offers a convenient and affordable option for smaller weddings.

GT Karnal Road:

The Grand Iris: Immerse yourself in luxury at The Grand Iris. This contemporary venue offers opulent banquet halls, a dedicated bridal room, and a sprawling lawn. Their personalized services and innovative catering options elevate your wedding experience.

Invitee Banquets: This versatile Wedding Venues in Gt Karnal Road features multiple banquet halls catering to various wedding sizes and styles. Their experienced team assists with all aspects of your wedding planning, ensuring a stress-free celebration.

Beyond Venues: Unveiling Additional Services:

While venues are crucial, it's the additional services that truly elevate your wedding celebration:

Catering: From vegetarian delicacies to international buffets, West Delhi provides an array of catering options to match your taste and budget.

Décor: Talented decorators transform your chosen venue into a dream setting, reflecting your style and theme.

Entertainment: Live music, DJs, and dance performances add vibrant energy to your wedding festivities.

Photography & Videography: Capture the precious moments of your wedding with skilled photographers and videographers who immortalize your story.

Final Touches:

Remember, the perfect wedding venue is one that resonates with your vision and budget. Explore West Delhi's diverse offerings, compare details, and schedule visits to ensure a venue that sets the stage for a truly unforgettable celebration.

Read More... https://weddingbanquets.in/

[slashcrz]

( aishwarya rai bachchan , 59 , she/her , cis woman , sharma #1 ) - have you seen RESHIKA SHARMA?  we’ve heard through the grapevine that they’re REFLECTIVE but also MEDDLESOME. when you think of them , you think of GIRLHOOD FORFEITED IN LIEU OF GREATNESS, THE SWISHING OF SKIRTS AGAINST MUSIC && BODY IN HARMONY, BOWING AT THE GANESH TMEPLE WITH AN OFFERING HANDMADE, WATCHING THE DUSK OF A NEW ERA DAWN OVER THE HILLS .

name; reshika sharma {nee shivaji}

nicknames; none.

birth date; june 19th, a gemini

orientation; bisexual, probably closeted.

relationship; widowed, single.

politics; tba.

religion; hinduism

languages; tba.

headcanons && backstory.

she was born into nobility due to her father's rank in the maratha confederacy, and has always held her home close to her heart. spirituality was always important to her, being a hindu in a muslim court, as well as because she was raised by her mother, a kathak performer. reshika loved dance, all forms, studying under great artists, and spending hours she should be studying moving to music instead. it was this skill that got her noticed at all by the emperor, who loved to watch her dance, loved her hindu stories she told with her hands && her feet. it was a shock to her when he invited her back again, and again, to dance at agra fort. she was both a guest of nobility, and on some nights, the star of the show. those early days will always be regarded as the fondest of her time, reshika believes. when the dowager empress chose her, just as she would come to do herself in later years, reshika wept both tears of joy && of pain. to become empress was the most divine opportunity a woman could ever hope for, and she had only just turned 18... but it came with it such a high cost. to stop dancing, to end her free traveling, to say goodbye to her family, and to acclimate to a different religious culture than her own surrounding her. and, of course, a husband - they had fun, but they were still largely strangers to one another. life at court was not unhappy, but reshika missed her life before, and would regularly sneak out in full disguise to dance in delhi. it was a whole life she lived, unknown to anyone home in the palace, even her husband with whom she shared a complicated love for. her alter-ego would love, would experience loss, would make && break friendships, until slowly, it came to a stop after the birth of her second child. reshika finally had began to acclimate to court, after half a decade of it. she was a good empress, always smart, a little restless, and wished to have found herself a way to be happier, taking on the blame for this herself. she has high suspicion of the new empress... she knows a liar when she sees one. reshika is a liar herself. and oh, she still loves to dance. during her time as empress, she was a solid support, and never gave up her hindu roots while also opening schools of dance, and other artistic endeavors, and always trying to push for better for everyone. she cares deeply both about the sharma family, and about india, "her" empire. it will make it tragic when she learns the current empress wants to tear down what was built, and she will do whatever it takes to defend it.

resources -> x, x, x.

[michaelgogins]

Talk/Performance at Luck Dragon

This coming Friday the 27th, at 6 PM, at Luck Dragon on 100 Main Street in Delhi, New York, I will present my browser-based computer music system cloud-5, play some music, and talk about algorithmic composition.

The slides for my talk are here and -- if you download the PDF! -- all links should be "live."

[exploreglobe11]

Top 10 Best Places to Visit During Navratri Festival for a Memorable Celebration

Navratri, one of the most vibrant and significant festivals in India, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. It is a time when people come together to honor the goddess Durga and indulge in lively dance, music, and delicious food. The nine nights of Navratri are a spectacle of colors, traditions, and spirituality. If you're planning to partake in this magnificent festival, you might be wondering where to go. To help you make the most of your Navratri celebration, here is a list of the top 10 best places to visit during Navratri festival.

1. Vadodara, Gujarat:

Vadodara, also known as Baroda, is renowned for its grand Navratri celebrations. The city comes alive with elaborate garba and dandiya events. The United Way of Baroda's Navratri Festival is one of the most famous in the country. With its rich cultural heritage and a plethora of cultural programs, Vadodara is a top choice for Navratri enthusiasts.

2. Kolkata, West Bengal:

In Kolkata, Navratri is celebrated as Durga Puja. The city becomes a hub of artistic expression, with intricately crafted idols of goddess Durga. The grand processions and cultural performances make it a unique Navratri experience. Don't miss the dhunuchi dance and the iconic "sindoor khela" on Dashami.

3. Mysore, Karnataka:

Mysore is famous for its Dasara festival, which coincides with Navratri. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a magical ambiance. The grand procession with caparisoned elephants is a sight to behold. Mysore's Navratri celebrations offer a blend of tradition and grandeur.

4. Ahmedabad, Gujarat:

Ahmedabad hosts one of the most prominent Navratri celebrations in the world. The International Kite Festival is another highlight during this period. With non-stop garba events, mouth-watering Gujarati cuisine, and the vibrant atmosphere, Ahmedabad is a must-visit during Navratri.

5. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh:

Kullu Dussehra is celebrated with immense fervor in the Kullu Valley. The festival usually lasts for a week and includes processions, folk dances, and a huge congregation of deities. It's a unique experience that showcases the rich culture of Himachal Pradesh.

6. Delhi:

Delhi's Navratri celebrations are marked by grand events, beautifully decorated pandals, and artistic expressions of devotion. The famous Durga Puja pandals in CR Park and Chittaranjan Park are a sight to behold. Additionally, the city hosts numerous garba and dandiya events.

7. Mumbai, Maharashtra:

While Mumbai is known for its energetic Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, Navratri also holds a special place in the hearts of the people. The city hosts a variety of dandiya events, and the immersion of goddess Durga's idol is a significant event.

8. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:

Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is a unique place to celebrate Navratri. The city's spiritual ambiance gets even more profound during this festival. The ghats of the Ganges River come alive with the sound of devotional songs and aarti ceremonies.

9. Jaipur, Rajasthan:

The Pink City, Jaipur, is known for its royal celebrations during Navratri. The folk dances and music performances at various heritage locations in Jaipur offer a memorable cultural experience. The city's architecture and palaces add to the charm of the celebrations.

10. Navratri Cruise, Goa:

If you're looking for a unique Navratri experience, consider the Navratri cruise in Goa. It offers a fusion of traditional and modern celebrations. Dance to the beats of garba while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea.

In conclusion, Navratri is a time of immense joy, spirituality, and cultural diversity. These ten places in India offer diverse experiences to celebrate this festive season. Whether you prefer traditional garba and dandiya or artistic expressions of devotion, there's a Navratri celebration for everyone. Make the most of this vibrant festival by exploring these incredible destinations. Happy Navratri!

[top10placestovisitintheworld]

Discover the Top Destinations for Celebrating Dussehra: Best Places to Visit

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the triumph of good over evil and is a time when communities come together to celebrate with great fervor and enthusiasm. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of Dussehra, here are some of the best places to visit in Dussehra.

1. Mysuru, Karnataka Mysuru, renowned for its grand Dussehra celebrations, tops the list of must-visit places during this festival. The city’s magnificent Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The royal procession, or “Jumbo Savari,” features beautifully decorated elephants and traditional dancers, making it a sight to behold.

2. Kolkata, West Bengal In Kolkata, Dussehra is celebrated with unmatched grandeur as Durga Puja. The city comes alive with beautifully crafted idols of Goddess Durga, cultural performances, and artistic pandals (temporary structures). Witness the elaborate immersion processions and immerse yourself in the rich culture of West Bengal during this time.

3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India, celebrates Dussehra with a unique twist. Devotees gather at the ghats along the Ganges River to witness the “Ravan Dahan,” where giant effigies of the demon king Ravana are set ablaze. The combination of spirituality and festivity creates a memorable experience.

4. Kota, Rajasthan Kota is famous for its traditional Ramayana plays during Dussehra. These plays, known as “Ramlila,” depict the life of Lord Rama and his victory over Ravana. The city’s vibrant processions and cultural events make it a fantastic destination for Dussehra enthusiasts.

5. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh Kullu in Himachal Pradesh celebrates Dussehra in a unique style with a week-long fair. The highlight is the colorful and lively processions, featuring idols from various local temples. It’s a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and natural beauty, as Kullu is surrounded by the stunning Himalayan landscape.

6. Delhi The capital city of India also observes Dussehra with great enthusiasm. The iconic Red Fort hosts a spectacular Ravan Dahan event, attracting thousands of visitors. Additionally, various cultural programs and fairs are organized throughout the city during the festival.

7. Bastar, Chhattisgarh For a more offbeat Dussehra experience, head to Bastar in Chhattisgarh. Here, you can witness the unique and ancient “Bastar Dussehra” celebrations. The tribal communities showcase their rich culture through traditional dance, music, and rituals.

In conclusion, Dussehra is a time of joy and unity in India, and these destinations offer diverse and enriching experiences to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Mysuru, the artistry of Kolkata, or the spirituality of Varanasi, each place has its unique way of embracing the festival’s spirit. Plan your trip to one of these best places to visit in Dussehra and enjoy to the fullest.

For more travel tips and information on celebrating festivals in India, stay tuned to our website. Happy Dussehra!

[shehnai-waden]

Live Band vs. DJ: Which Is Right for Your Wedding Reception?

Your wedding reception is a celebration of love, and what's a celebration without music? The choice between the best live bands for weddings and a DJ is a decision that can significantly impact the atmosphere and overall experience of your big day. So, which is right for your wedding reception? Let's explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

Live music band for wedding

Pros

Authenticity and Energy: A live band can infuse your reception with an authentic and energetic vibe. Having skilled musicians and vocalists around can make for a mesmerizing and touching atmosphere.

Customization: Many live bands can adapt their repertoire to suit your musical preferences. Together, you and your guests can create a personalized playlist that perfectly matches your unique tastes and preferences. Collaborating with them will ensure that your playlist is tailored to your needs and desires.

Interactive Experience: Live Band for Wedding often engage with the crowd, encouraging guests to dance and be a part of the performance. This interactive element can enhance the overall enjoyment of your reception.

Cons

Cost: Live bands can be more expensive than DJs due to the number of musicians involved and their equipment requirements.

Limited Repertoire: While many live bands are versatile, they may have limitations in terms of the variety of music genres they can cover compared to a DJ with an extensive digital library.

DJ for Wedding

Pros

Versatility: DJs have access to a vast library of songs spanning various genres and eras. They can easily switch between different musical styles to cater to diverse tastes.

Cost-Effective: DJs are typically more budget-friendly compared to live bands, making them a practical choice for couples on a tight budget.

Continuous Playback: DJs can provide uninterrupted music throughout the reception, ensuring there are no breaks in the entertainment.

Song Requests: Guests can make song requests, allowing them to hear their favorite tunes and feel more involved in the music selection.

Cons

Lack of Live Performance: While DJs can create an excellent dance party atmosphere, they may not provide the live music experience that some couple desires.

Less Personalization: While DJs can take song requests, they may not offer the same level of personalization and customization as a live band.

Choosing the Right Option

Ultimately, the choice between a live band and a DJ in Delhi for your wedding reception depends on your budget, musical preferences, and the atmosphere you want to create. Some couples even opt for a combination, having a live band for certain segments of the reception and a DJ for others. Whichever you choose, the goal is to create a memorable and joyful experience for you and your guests, celebrating your love through music. And if you are looking for any of the both then Shehnaiwaden is the place you should visit.

[bollywoodirect]

Remembering Om Shivpuri and Sudha Shivpuri on their birthday (14/07). Both husband and wife were born on the same day.

Today, on their shared birthday (July 14), we pay tribute to the remarkable couple, Om Shivpuri and Sudha Shivpuri, who not only shared their lives together but also their passion for the world of performing arts. Let's take a moment to honor their incredible contributions to theater, film, and television. 🎭🎥

Sudha Shivpuri, born on July 14, 1937, was a highly acclaimed actress, best known for her iconic portrayal of Baa in the Hindi TV serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (2000–2008). Her journey in the entertainment industry began after graduating from the prestigious National School of Drama in 1963, alongside her future husband, Om Shivpuri. They formed a powerful partnership and established their own theater company called Dishantar, which became a significant force in Delhi's theater scene. Under Om Shivpuri's brilliant direction, Dishantar presented a repertoire of influential contemporary plays, including Aadhe Adhurey, Tughlaq, and Vijay Tendulkar's Khamosh! Adalat Jari Hai, where Sudha Shivpuri showcased her exceptional talent in the lead role.

In addition to her theater prowess, Sudha Shivpuri made a lasting impact on the silver screen. After moving to Mumbai in 1974, she made her film debut in Basu Chatterjee's Swami (1977) and went on to deliver captivating performances in movies such as Insaaf Ka Tarazu, Hamari Bahu Alka, Hum Dono (1985), Sawan Ko Aane Do, Sun Meri Laila, The Burning Train, Vidhaata, and Maya Memsaab (1993).

Despite taking a break from films, Sudha Shivpuri gracefully transitioned to television and won hearts with her memorable roles in serials like Aa Bail Mujhe Maar and Rajni (1985). She further expanded her presence in the small screen domain with appearances in popular shows like Sheeshe Ka Ghar, Waqt Ka Dariya, Daman, Santoshi Ma, Yeh Ghar, Kasamh Se, and Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil. However, it was her portrayal of 'Baa' in the widely acclaimed TV serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi that brought her immense fame and adoration from viewers.

Sudha Shivpuri's artistic brilliance earned her the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2009, an honor bestowed by the esteemed Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's National Academy of Music, Dance, and Drama. This accolade recognized her exceptional acting contributions to theater, further highlighting her remarkable talent and dedication.

On this shared birthday, we also commemorate Om Shivpuri, born on July 14, 1938, who left an indelible mark as a renowned theater actor-director and character actor in Hindi films. Graduating from the National School of Drama, Om Shivpuri became the first chief of the National School of Drama Repertory Company in 1964. He later founded Dishantar, a prominent theater group in New Delhi. Together with Sudha Shivpuri, they staged numerous unforgettable plays, including Aadhe Adhure, Tughlaq, and Khamosh! Adalat Jari Hai, showcasing their unmatched talent and artistic vision.

As we celebrate the lives and legacies of Om Shivpuri and Sudha Shivpuri on their special day, let us remember their extraordinary contributions to the world of entertainment. Their dedication, passion, and remarkable body of work continue to inspire generations of artists and entertain audiences even today.

Join us in honoring the iconic couple, Om Shivpuri and Sudha Shivpuri, as we celebrate their shared birthday and their everlasting impact on the world of performing arts.

[pct-zindabad]

Cricket & Qawwali

𝘖𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘗𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘪 𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘘𝘢𝘸𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘪:

“Briefly – and dryly – Qawwali is a form of devotional music, originating centuries ago but in the form that we now know it in around the 13th century by one order of the Sufis. (Sufism is a practice of Islam but, with its modern puritanism belt much loosened, it asks for a more personalised relationship with God.) Generally but not exclusively, the lyrics will be the work of great Sufi poets, rendered in soaring, shrieking voices but to bare music: a tabla or dhol for a beat, a wheezing harmonium for rhythm, and the clapping of an entourage. The voice, the clapping, the chanting: these are the structural planks. But the spiritual base is the most important because Qawwali is not just music. To those versed, it is a call to prayer, to ritual, to contemplation, to faith, to hope, to despair, to love, to mourning, to celebration. Other music, especially modern music, asks you primarily to listen. Qawwali asks that you submit, that you immerse yourself. Otherwise it asks – and gives – you nothing.

Taken casually, it can be a mood thing. Sometimes it’s left me flat, a mish-mash of voice and noise that, to an ear attuned to Western music, is too disparate and incoherent. But sometimes – live especially and, thus, raw – it catches. Maybe it’s the right lyric or the force of repetition but then – forget mind, body and soul – it can set fire to eternity.

The more I thought about it, the more apparent Qawwali became as a revelatory point of reference for Pakistan’s cricket in those spells. Is it too crazy? I spoke to Abu Mohammad, one of the country’s leading Qawwals (better known alongside his brother Fareed Ayaz) about it. I’m not sure that the argument struck him immediately but, by the end of our conversation, as he promised to send me articles from 2005 (when former President Pervez Musharraf, the Pakistan cricket team and Mohammad and his troupe were all in Delhi together) linking Qawwali and cricket, I thought he might have warmed to it.

There were two questions I really wanted to put to him. Could it be said, I asked, that to the uninitiated, a Qawwali can sometimes feel like a living, breathing but random collection of voice and sound until, suddenly at one moment, it surges together. And then transformed, it becomes momentarily a single, powerful force. (Take also, I thought but didn’t ask, the alaap, that sudden vocal burst in a Qawwali. Is that not exactly like a riff of wickets by one bowler from out of nowhere, at odds with everything that has gone before?)

But it was the next question, about haal, that had really gnawed away in my head. The literal meaning of haal is state, as in a state of being, and it can refer to a number of different states. But it has come to be interpreted, more often than not, as one ultimate state of ecstasy, much sought after but rarely achieved, in man’s journey to get closer to God. “In the ecstatic state,” explains Idries Shah in his book Oriental Magic, “Sufis are believed to be able to overcome all barriers of time, space and thought. They are able to cause apparently impossible things to happen merely because they are no longer confined by the barriers which exist for more ordinary people.”

One of the primary objectives of Qawwali is to attempt to bring the performer as well as the listener to haal. Mohammad recites a Sufi poem and then says: “The state of haal is such that if you, God willing, get there in a gathering, after coming back from haal, you will not be able to describe or explain the feeling. This is just that state that only he knows who has experienced it. Haal or wajd [the literal translation for ecstasy] is such a state that comes to that man and takes him to the goal that he has been in search of all his life. Then he is not with himself, he has reached somewhere else.”

Is there a moment in live performances when you can identify that haal has been achieved? “No, no, no. You cannot identify this moment [haal ultimately can only be granted to you, you have no control over its arrival]. Sometimes it is the traditional chant Allah hu and it happens, sometimes a verse like Dam a dam mast qalandar and it’s there. This is dependent on the individual and their state of existence, the mood of the moment, where their point of thinking is taken from.”

“The entire tournament was, for Pakistan, like a Qawwali itself: disparate, floating aimlessly initially before suddenly coming together with such force that they became the best in the world”

This isn’t so radical a connection because, from the off, the concept of haal struck me as a familiar one. In a way it’s what all athletes strive towards. Only in sports they call it “the zone”, that state of supreme focus which sees athletes perform for periods at the very peak of their potential. How similar is it? Well. Dr Roberta Antonini Phillipe, a sports psychologist at the Institute of Movement Sciences and Sports Medicine, University of Geneva, says that when a player is in the zone, it is like being in a trance.

“The zone is when your mind fully connects with achieving a goal,” she explains. “When you’re in the zone your mind only processes the thoughts and images that help you execute your task successfully. In that state of mind the athlete explains that he has positive thoughts, positive images and sometimes also music in his head.”

The trope that the zone has spiritual components and implications is not unexplored. The psychologist Andrew Cooper did so in his 1998 book Playing in the Zone: Exploring the Spiritual Dimensions of Sports. Cooper is a devout student of Zen. “The zone is the essence and pinnacle of the athletic experience, for it reveals that, at their root, sports are a theatre for enacting the drama of self-transcendence,” he writes. “Athletes and fans alike, focused as we so often are on the game of winning and losing, miss the deeper significance that is right before our eyes. But in the zone, the extraordinary capacities that lie within each individual are made manifest. To grasp this hidden dimension is to transform the very meaning of athletic play.”

“Net practice and training – the rehearsed recordings of sport – are generally imprisonment for Pakistani players”

Where haal deviates from the zone is in the idea that the latter can be sought, that through a series of steps or rigorous preparation and practice it can be achieved. Many sports psychologists – but not all – believe that using different techniques of visualisation, goal-setting and self-motivation can help athletes to achieve and stay in the zone. Pakistan employs no such techniques and never has done. Just as Abu Mohammad says that Qawwali rehearsed and recorded in a studio is the imprisonment of the form, so it is with Pakistan. Net practice and training – the rehearsed recordings of sport – are generally imprisonment for Pakistani players. That is not where they shine. For them, as with Qawwali, it happens live and it happens unprepared. Enlightenment, goes one saying of Zen, is an accident, as it could be in haal and as it is in Pakistan cricket.

There are other points to consider in Pakistan’s deviation. How often, for example, do you hear of a group of athletes going into the zone collectively? It can and does happen. According to Ed Smith, Mike Brearley recently described a team in a zone: “Each player breathes in the others at their best, is strengthened by that identification, and gives off similar vibes to the rest of the team.” Choking, almost an opposite of the zone, does spread through teams. But the most striking aspect of Pakistan’s haal is the effect it has on the spectator. When Pakistan achieve haal, to be there live is to almost achieve haal yourself, in unison, as is the hope of every performance of Qawwali.

The Abu Dhabi Test win over England in January 2012, to pull out just one instance, managed this. I wrote a piece in which briefly I wondered about haal and Sufism. One spectator, part of the English travelling support, read it and wrote in. “As part of the visiting England fan base we sat yesterday in awe of what unfolded. Seldom do you see a side in any form of cricket dismantled in two hours of play. What struck many of us – and we have all played the game throughout our lives – was the seeming inevitability of what was about to unfold. From the very start of the England second innings one could sense a quiet but definite shift in ownership of the moment, something beyond the playing conditions and the participants solely. It was like karma, strange as that may sound. Your article summed up the sense of ‘other worldliness’ some of us felt.”

In other words, submission. Because, finally, what Pakistan are doing in these moments is asking you to submit. They are asking you, opponent and spectator, to submit to their reality, their chaos, their unplanning, their spur of the moment, their pox, their talent, their wretchedness, their beauty, their spirit. They are inviting you to dance with them. Except that it isn’t just a dance. It is the dance of that great Sufi poet, Jalaluddin Rumi:

“Dance, when you’re broken open.

Dance, if you’ve torn the bandage off.

Dance in the middle of the fighting.

Dance in your blood.

Dance when you’re perfectly free.”

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