Got to see Saami Brothers perform at #mozfest2026 today. It was a surreal experience, not just because of the music, but because musical traditions of my home rarely get represented on stages and in spaces like these.
At the same time, it was bittersweet. I wish the organisers had put more effort into actually understanding what this music represents. If they'd done that, they might have given it the space and respect it merits rather than making it lunch-time entertainment.
On one hand, I feel like I should be grateful for the representation. And when I saw this on the schedule, I did. But I cannot help but also feel disappointed.
The Sufi tradition is long-standing, and the music, sacred. Qawwalis aren't pop music with catchy beats. And they're certainly not songs to groove to between festival sessions.
Am I overreacting? IDK, I would love to get other perspectives here.
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